Bernard Silva, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on December 12, 2022 at the Sussman House in Rockport, Maine at the age of 85.

Bernie was born on April 14, 1937, in Gloucester, Massachusetts, to Bernard and Aili Silva. He grew up there and graduated from Gloucester High School in 1956. He excelled at basketball and football and was cadet colonel of the ROTC.

It was at a Gloucester High School dance where he met the love of his life, Rhoda Ina, who he would spend 63 years happily married to, much to the chagrin of the league of female admirers who used to plaster love notes on his locker. 

After graduating from high school, Bernie turned down two college football scholarships and  enlisted in the U.S. Army for two years. While serving in Korea, he played on the base football team, the Dragons, enjoying an undefeated season. When he returned home he began working for Del West HVAC where he worked for 40 years.

Bernie and Rhoda spent much of their married life in Magnolia, a small village of Gloucester. It was there that he found life-long friends and his love of the ocean. Whether he was bailing his boat or washing the car, Bernie always looked like he stepped out of the pages of GQ magazine.

He also possessed the keen ability of scaring his family, especially Rhoda. He could be hiding in a closet or behind a door, grinning over what was to transpire. We took notes and upped our vengeance and he loved every minute of it. 

After retirement, Bernie and Rhoda moved to Midcoast Maine to be near their daughter and grandson. He loved his family, but great-grandson Henry was his special joy. 

Bernie is survived by his wife, Rhoda (Ina) Silva; his daughter, Debbie Drago (Mark); his grandson, Keith Drago; and his great-grandson, Henry Drago as well as extended family.

He was predeceased by his brother, Edward Silva. Bernie will be missed by his many friends, especially Curt Henderson. While our hearts break with the sorrow of our loss, we will all breathe a little easier knowing he won’t be lurking around a corner ready to jump out and scare us. 

A memorial gathering will take place on Monday, December 19 at 10 a.m. at the Rockport Opera House, 6 Central Street, Rockport, Maine. 

In lieu of flowers, hug your loved ones.