Michael Anthony Silva

Michael Anthony Silva, 72, took his final breath on March 18, 2025, after an impressive and inspirational seven year battle with cancer. He passed peacefully at home in Merced with his longtime love and biggest supporter, Debbi Shannon.

Born on May 22, 1952, Mike was a force of nature who never met a stranger. No one could escape his charm, humor, booming voice, or explosive laughter. He used his seemingly endless energy and stubborn strength of both body and mind to help anyone, anywhere, anytime. Friends and family could always count on him for some "creative" problem solving as well.

He was a man of many talents and varied occupations, all of which were a testament to his desire and capability as a learner and a doer. These included: picking blackberries (as a 2nd grader!), Army military police, cattle ranch worker, Foster Farms chicken hanger, packer, security officer, and quality control, Atwater reserve police officer, trailer park manager, turkey farm worker, junior rodeo rope steer participant, coach, photographer, and construction.

Mike loved being outdoors, whether fishing or shooting with his sons, taking care of his animals, or building yet another project on his property, especially if it was for his chickens. In rare moments of stillness, he could be found practicing guitar or playing computer games with his grandson.

Mike was also a man of faith. From his early days as an altar boy to his final act of service co-founding and running the church safety team with his wife, his spiritual journey remained central to his life. Perhaps most important to him was communicating, through both words and example, his unrelenting faith in God to others who struggled alongside him with cancer.

He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Krystal (Jon Tuttle) Silva, Mike (Stacy) Silva, Nathan (Dawn) Silva, and Tiffany (Mike) Machado; eleven grandchildren: Mikie, Jessica, Zachary, Nathanial, Shayla, Noah, and Isabella Silva, Maia and Neve Silva Tuttle, Chloe Silva-Wolf, and Collin Silva; his brother and sisters-in-law: Rick and Virginia Silva, and Maria Silva; and his lifelong friend, Darvin Thomas. Also fondly remembered are his beloved flock of chickens (throughout the years) and his faithful companions, Honey and Molly.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Jane Ellen Silva; his father, Tony James Silva; and his baby brother, Stephen Silva.

Mike's lasting legacy lives on as we remember the stories shared and his echoes of encouragement to be independent, strong, resourceful and true to yourself, and in the end to always stick together as family. He made us all proud to be Silvas.

A private service will be held for now. A celebration of life will follow at a later date. For more information, please visit https://www.mykeeper.com/MikeSilva