Robert H. Silvestri

Robert H. Silvestri, 87, passed away November 10, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of the late Assunta “Sue” (Breggia) Silvestri and son of the late Angelo and Belissa (Janetta) Silvestri. He was the beloved father of Marilyn J. Castrignano and Arlene J. Atkins and her husband Ray; grandfather of Thomas R. and Christa S. Castrignano; great-grandfather of Hayden; brother of the late Joseph and Richard Silvestri.

Bob was our beloved father and grandfather. He always said he knew at a young age that he would go into business for himself. Early in his career, he learned the trade of setting tile. Little did he know that this trade would provide him with the skill set needed to install in ground swimming pools which proved to be his niche.

Bob started his business of building in-ground swimming pools in Florida and then, when his wife became homesick, they moved back to RI where he created Modern Swimming Pool Supply Company, Inc. in 1961. He was a pioneer, becoming the first swimming pool builder in RI and his company flourished. He later opened a retail store front swimming pool supply and service business which continues to this day. Even after retirement, he was missed by his customers who often inquired about him.

Bob was a devoted father and husband who was generous to all. He was a very hard worker who put his all into his business. But he also enjoyed his time with family, friends, and traveling with his wife, Sue, of 63 years. Bob loved to roller skate in his earlier days and, after marriage, they joined a bowling league. He went on to become a pro-bowler. In his later years, he played golf on a regular basis. He loved to listen to big band music and he and his wife went dancing nearly every Saturday night. Bob will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held Monday 4-7 p.m. with his funeral on Tuesday at 10 a.m. from PONTARELLI-MARINO Home, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. in The Church of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 1081 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Holy Family Home, 5 Gibbs Street, North Providence, RI 02904.