Dennis M Silva

In Loving Memory of Dennis M. Silva It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dennis M. Silva, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left this world on July 24, 2026, after a long illness that he faced with courage and grace. Dennis was 87 years old and was surrounded by the love of his family during his final days at the Desert Mountain Care in Indio, California. Born on Big Game Day, Saturday, November 19, 1938, in San Francisco, California at St. Mary's Hospital.. Dennis was the cherished only child of Mervin Paul Silva and Frances Virginia Muheim Silva, who predeceased him. His early life was spent at Noni Silva's home on Filbert St., San Francisco. His parents left the City and moved to Burlingame, CA in the late 1940s. Growing up on the Peninsula, Dennis developed a love for the outdoors and sports, which would remain lifelong passions. Dennis's journey of education began at St. Catherine's in Burlingame, onto Serra High School, graduating in 1957. He pursued further studies with a term at Berkeley and completed his AA education at the College of San Mateo. In 1960, Dennis answered the call of duty and served two years in the Army Artillery, where he would fondly recall his unique experience of driving a jeep for General Patton's son—a tale he proudly shared with family and friends. An industrious man from a young age, Dennis's career began at Darcy's Sporting Goods in San Mateo when he was 9, where he worked as a pinsetter. His friendship with Joe Darcy and passion for hunting and fishing led him to eventually own Darcy's Sporting Goods. He had an illustrious career as a furniture buyer for Gold Key, then as buyer for Macy's Sporting Goods and later in sales in the furniture department at Macy's Hillsdale. It was during his time at Macy's that he bought Darcy's Sporting Goods in downtown San Mateo. Before Big5 there were only two real sporting goods stores on the Peninsula and Darcy's was one of them. He worked at Macy's Hillsdale in the furniture department until his retirement in 1997. Retirement, however, was not the end but a new beginning as Dennis learned the appliance business and worked for General Appliance, then embraced the challenge of learning the electrical trade at the age of 74, continuing to inspire with his zest for knowledge and skill. Dennis was not just a man of work; he was a man of life and laughter. An avid duck hunter, fisherman, and sports enthusiast, Dennis found joy in baseball, basketball, football, skiing, running, and tennis. His love for collecting stamps and baseball cards added to his repertoire of hobbies, as did his title as a Yo-Yo champion in 1956. Known for his vibrant personality and engaging storytelling, Dennis had a gift for captivating a crowd. His presence was always announced by a cheerful whistle and an infectious smile. Whether hosting a Saturday BBQ at General Appliance or volunteering at Notre Dame Elementary, Dennis's warmth and hospitality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Dennis shared a beautiful life with his devoted wife, Karen Wiseth Harris, whom he married on January 8, 1982. Together, they nurtured a loving family that includes his son Michael Anthony (Mike) Silva, daughter Lauren Ashley Silva Smith, stepdaughter Ryanne Harris Levi, daughter-in-law Brittney Brown, and son-in-law Sean Smith. Dennis took great pride in his eight grandchildren: Paige Levi, Erin Levi, Trinity Silva, Brooklyn Smith, Blake Smith, London Smith, Scottlyn Smith, and Massimo Silva, who were the lights of his life. He leaves behind a loving extended family, including his mother-in-law Carol Wiseth, brother and sister-in-laws Kelli Wiseth, Kristi Rosetti, Derek Wiseth, Marcie & David Reeves, Garret & Debbie Wiseth, and Danielle Wiseth, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. The cousins loved their Uncle Dennis- Kiel Rosetti, Kori Rosetti, Karli Reeves, Gunnar Reeves, Bowden Wiseth, Kaiden Wiseth and Loghan Wiseth. Dennis cherished family gatherings, where his joy and exuberance shone brightly. In honor of Dennis's memory, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice. The Silva family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mike Silva, Lauren & Sean Smith, Brittney Brown, Lorena Escalante and the dedicated hospice staff at the Desert Mountain Care for their compassionate care of Dennis during his final years. Dennis M. Silva's legacy is one of love, laughter, and a life lived to the fullest. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his spirit continue to inspire and his stories live on in our hearts.