Brian Patrick D'Silva

A Humble Life of Resilience, Dedication, Gratitude and Love

Brian Patrick D'Silva, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, cousin, uncle, and friend, passed away on July 26, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and resilience. Born on January 14, 1944, in Secunderabad, India, Brian entered the world during the vibrant festival of kites, Shankaratri. This serendipitous timing perhaps serves as a metaphor for his life, where his aspirations and endeavors soared high, propelled by the forces of determination and the winds of opportunity.

He was the fifth of six children born to Edward “Tony” D'Silva, an electrician, and Marie Inconscienza D'Silva ( Berchy), a dedicated school teacher.

Childhood and Early Education

Brian's childhood was enriched by the warmth and support of his siblings: his brother Ralph, and his sisters Shirley, Merlyn, Hazel, and Jean. His older brother Ralph played a significant role in his early years, often carrying young Brian on his back to school. Brian was raised in a family that deeply valued education and hard work. His father, an electrician who shared Brian's passion and curiosity for technology and understanding how things worked, and his mother, a dedicated school teacher, instilled in him a lifelong love for learning and teaching. This emphasis on education was echoed by his sisters, all of whom became teachers, underscoring the importance of knowledge and learning in his family.

He would attend St.Patrick’s School in Secunderabad, India where his mother taught at and sisters Shirley and Hazel would also eventually teach at. This would also be the place where he would later meet his wife Thelma Colette O’Connor. Hence in could be said that his middle name Patrick was apropos for it was at St.Patrick’s not only did he developed his passion for learning and working hard that would be the foundation for his future career life but also it was there that he would find his true love.

A Passion for Mechanics and Early Career

Inspired by his father’s electrical work he original sought to follow in his father's footsteps in the electrical field however under the guidance of his uncle D’Costa, the principal of the Industrial Technical School of India (ITI) in Hyderabad, Brian pursued a career in mechanics. This decision set him on a path that would take him far from his birthplace but always carrying with him the lessons and values instilled by his family. Brian began his apprenticeship with the Road Transport Corporation, where he worked on double-decker buses, honing his skills and developing a deep passion for mechanics.

The Journey to Uganda

In the early 1970s, as Uganda sought skilled technicians to help build its economy post-independence, Brian volunteered to move to Uganda, despite his father’s initial reluctance. His mother, however, encouraged him to chase his dreams. In Uganda, Brian excelled as a mechanic and later became a teacher of diesel mechanics, sharing his knowledge and skills with many.

Exile and New Beginnings in America

Brian’s time in Uganda was cut short by the brutal political upheaval under Idi Amin’s regime, which led to the expulsion of Asians from the country. In 1972, Idi Amin, known for his ruthless dictatorship that resulted in the deaths and torture of hundreds of thousands, ordered the expulsion of approximately 80,000 Asians from Uganda within 90 days. This decree was part of a campaign to transfer economic control by seizing Asian-owned businesses and properties, often accompanied by violence and theft. Many Asians, including Brian, faced severe intimidation and brutality, leading to a mass exodus.

Brian found himself in a refugee camp in Rome, Italy, before being sponsored by a Methodist church in Flint, Michigan. Arriving in the United States with little more than hope and determination, Brian began to rebuild his life. He quickly found work as a mechanic and later opened his own shop in Flint.

Love and Family

During a visit to India in 1977, Brian met Thelma Colette D'Silva, a colleague of his mother. Their romance blossomed, leading to their marriage on December 15, 1979, at Saint Mary’s Church in Secunderabad. Thelma joined Brian in the United States, and together they built a life filled with love and resilience. Their first child, Amanda, was born on Brian’s birthday, January 14, 1982, and she was the greatest gift he could ever receive. Their son, Ryan, followed in 1983 who they cherished.

Brian was a loving, caring, and selfless father who dedicated himself to his family. He took immense pride in his children, always putting their needs above his own. He was patient and kind, always ready to offer a listening ear or a comforting hug. Brian's generosity knew no bounds; he was always there to support his family through thick and thin. His unwavering dedication and love created a strong foundation for his children, teaching them the values of honesty, integrity, and compassion. He found joy in every moment spent with his family, whether it was celebrating milestones, sharing everyday experiences, or simply being present for his loved ones. Brian's legacy as a devoted father and husband will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Brian’s love for his family extended far beyond his immediate household. For family was the cornerstone of Brian's life. He was a devoted father, a loving grandfather, and a second father to many of his children's friends. His home with Thelma was always open, a haven of warmth and generosity. Brian's siblings, including Shirley and her husband Freddy Machaya, Hazel and her husband Archie, Ralph and his wife Hyacinth, Merlin, and Jean, along with their families, were an integral part of his life, sharing countless cherished moments. His role as an uncle was equally significant; he was deeply loved by his many nieces and nephews, as well as his grandnieces and grandnephews, who admired his kindness and generosity.

Brian's life was further enriched by Thelma's family, including her siblings Ralph, Phillip, Tony, Andrew, Rita, Tina, and Patricia. The bonds he formed with his in-laws were unique and deeply valued, reflecting his ability to touch hearts universally.

Although separated by distance, Brian cherished his extended family in Australia, Canada, India, England, and around the world. Family gatherings were special occasions for him, providing opportunities to reconnect and create lasting memories. Brian's ability to make everyone feel valued and loved left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

His home was always a place of warmth and welcome, where friends and family alike could find comfort and hospitality. Brian’s dedication to his family was unwavering, and his legacy of love, hard work, and generosity will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.

Career at Chrysler

Brian’s professional journey continued as he took up a position with Volkswagen of America and later with Chrysler, where he worked for almost 30 years. As a testing development technician, Brian was instrumental in fabricating and testing fuel systems for Jeep, truck, and Dodge Ram vehicles. His dedication to his work and his colleagues was unwavering, and he was highly valued for his work ethic and expertise.

Friendships and Coworkers

Throughout his life, Brian built enduring friendships that spanned the globe. His friends remember him as a kind, generous, and dependable individual who was always ready to lend a helping hand. Brian's coworkers at Chrysler and Volkswagen became an extended family to him, and he cherished the camaraderie and respect he shared with them. His ability to form deep, meaningful relationships with his colleagues was a testament to his genuine character and warm personality.

Legacy of Love and Generosity

Brian’s life was marked by his generosity, kindness, and deep love for his family. He was a devoted father and a second father to many of his children's friends. His home with Thelma was always open, a haven of warmth and hospitality. Brian was known for his ability to remember everyone’s birthdays and for his knack for creating meaningful connections with those around him.

Brian was also a wonderful cousin. He maintained close relationships with his extended family, always making an effort to stay connected despite the distances. Brian was the kind of cousin who could be counted on for support, whether it was through a kind word, a shared memory, or lending a helping hand. He cherished family gatherings and reunions, where his warmth and humor made everyone feel welcome and loved. Brian’s cousins remember him as someone who embodied the spirit of family, showing up with his characteristic generosity and kindness. His presence was a source of strength and comfort, creating bonds that will endure in the hearts of his family.

Brian was also a loving uncle to his many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews, creating bonds that spanned generations and continents. His extended family in Austrailia, Canada, India, England, and around the world held a special place in his heart, and he cherished the times they spent together.

In his later years, Brian was blessed with his first grandson, James Connor Hrit, who brought immense joy to him and Thelma.

A LIFE REMEMBERED

Brian Patrick D’Silva lived a life rooted in his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, which was the cornerstone of his character. His integrity, kindness, and humility were evident in every aspect of his life. He was never boastful, always choosing to give generously and care deeply for those around him. Brian’s faith guided him to live with compassion and selflessness, consistently putting others before himself. His acts of kindness and his genuine concern for the well-being of others left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Through his quiet yet powerful example, Brian demonstrated the true essence of a life well-lived, inspiring those around him to lead with integrity and love.

He is survived by his loving children, Amanda Marie D'Silva and Ryan Gerald D'Silva; his beloved grandson, James Connor Hrit; his dear siblings, and many friends and relatives who were touched by his remarkable journey.

We rest assured that Brian is now reunited with his beloved wife Thelma who passed in March and his love ones who passed before him.

Brian’s life motto, “Vision without action is just a dream. Action without vision is wasting your time. But vision with action can change the world,” embodies his belief in the power of perseverance and hard work. He lived by this principle humbly, showing through quiet determination that combining dreams with decisive action can indeed make a profound difference. Brian’s legacy is a testament to the impact of purposeful living and the enduring influence of his guiding principles, inspiring all who knew him to strive for a better world.

VISITATION & FUNERAL SERVICES

VISITATION

Date: Friday, August 2, 2024

Time: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

**Location:**

Temrowski Funeral Home

Address: 30009 Hoover Rd, Warren, MI 48093

FUNERAL SERVICES

Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024

Visitation Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Service Time: 1:00 PM

**Location:**

Temrowski Funeral Home

Address: 30009 Hoover Rd, Warren, MI 48093

WAKE

-Immediately following funeral service

**Location:**

Brian’s Home

Address: (Will notify @service)

We invite family and friends to join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Brian Patrick D'Silva.

LINK for live streaming of service*

https://www.youtube.com/live/lhUYAF3VGiQ?si=jfBoegjPmo07lbNA

* Streaming will begin 15min prior to service

1:00PM Eastern Standard Time (EST)