Joseph Gerard Joachim Silva

Paul Valery once said “a great man is one who leaves others at a loss after he is gone.” It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bandukula Mahagurunanselage Joseph Gerard Joachim Silva, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather on February 24, 2023.

His 97 years on this earth were filled with joy, happiness, and above all, love. He was born and raised in Mt. Lavinia, Sri Lanka to Elizabeth and Jeremius Silva. He met the love of his life, Winifred Margaret Silva, and they had a marriage that lasted for 71 years. This union blessed them with 6 beautiful children, whom he loved dearly and devoted his life to raising. His 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren were the light of his life. His greatest source of enjoyment was spending time with his family and friends.

He attended St. Peter's College and worked in the civilian section of the Sri Lankan Navy during the Second World War. For years, he worked as a sales manager for GC Roach. While there, he earned a reputation for his dedication and work ethic. He worked his way up the ladder and was quickly identified as a leader. Despite his busy schedule, he always made time for what he deemed most important, his family and friends. He was always there to lend support and offer advice whenever necessary. He was a true patriot and loved Sri Lanka.

His patriotism and love for his country may have started in Sri Lanka, but continued to thrive during his time in America. He organized many Sri Lankan events in Los Angeles. In his free time, he had an affinity for cooking, and watching sports, specifically cheering on his Dodgers and Lakers. He enjoyed reading The Reader’s Digest, National Geographic and the newspaper. He was a marvel when it came to numbers and could do mental math like no other. Joseph’s passing is a profound loss to his family and friends, and he will be greatly missed.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Winifred, his children Kanthi, Kalyani, Kusumal, Shanthini, Lakmaal, and Indunilka, his sons-in law, Gamini, Ananda, Anton, and Yasantha, and his daughters in law, Nelupa and Mereeka. He will be missed by his grandchildren, Dulnari, Supun, Anuk, Kalani, Piyali, Ranthisi, Ranithi, Rythme, Rasul, Shenali, Nadun, Himali, and Hasith, and his grandchildren in law, Yanaal, Dan, Johnny, Robert, Lisa, and Lauren. His legacy will live on through his great grandchildren, Amaan, Amara, Rowan, Arya, and Jyn. His abundance of love and kindness touched all who came in contact with him. It is said that “the highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.” Though we may grieve for the man we loved so much, we are also filled with an immense sense of gratitude for the memories he left us with.

A visitation for Joseph will be held Thursday, March 23, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Eternal Valley Memorial Park Mortuary, 23287 North Sierra Hwy, Newhall, CA 91321.

A funeral service will occur Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, 22508 Copper Hill Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

A committal service will occur Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Eternal Valley Memorial Park, 23287 North Sierra Hwy, Newhall, CA 91321.

Reception to follow at family home