Donald Silva (76) of Lakeville passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023 accompanied by his loving
daughter and his family.
Born in Taunton, he was the son of the late Manuel and Antoinetta (Barrago) Silva.
He was predeceased by the love of his life Carol Silva. He was a loving father to his daughter April and her
husband Milton Westgate of Freetown, MA. He was the proud grandfather to Carolyn and Milton and their
spouses Brandon and Sarah. He was overjoyed about the arrival of his great granddaughter Stella May in
January 2024. He also leaves behind his caring long-time companion of 18 years, Ann Marie along with their
playful dog Rusty, another loyal companion.
He was the brother of the late Manny Silva of Taunton, and Linda Ahr of Lakeville. He leaves behind his sisters
Josie Ashley of Tennessee and Mary Panettieri of Lakeville. He was also the loving uncle of many nieces and
nephews.
He was a hard worker who spent many years working construction and maintenance jobs throughout his life.
When he wasn’t working he enjoyed taking care of his house and keeping his yard beautiful, completing his
daily “paperwork”, checking in on his family with phone calls (always having a witty greeting and chatting about
daily life), going out for seafood dinners (especially a seafood platter), going out dancing with his favorite
music, spending time on the Cape Cod Canal, running errands at various stores (always chatting with the
employees), talking about football and his beloved Patriots, building birdhouses to give away to his family, and
visiting his close and extended family with every chance he got.
His greatest joy and achievement was his family, especially the family that April and Milton created including
his grandchildren Carolyn and Milton. He enjoyed spending time in their backyard on breezy summer days. He
loved to play with all of their dogs. He was curious about Milton’s garage projects. He supported and visited his
grandson’s speed shop. He was ever curious about his granddaughter’s teaching career. He loved having new
members of the family Brandon, who he could talk patriots with and complain about their losses, and Sarah,
who he talked to about her family and her upcoming wedding.
In death, he happily reunites with his wife Carol who he lost suddenly 48 years ago, his mother who he adored,
and his recently lost younger siblings.
Donald was famous for telling others “don’t get old”. But from his life we learn that aging is inevitable and so is
hardship but each day should be spent doing the things you love with those you love the most. In his final
moments he reflected on the many joys of life saying “We had a great time.”
Funeral home visiting hours will be held at the O’Keefe Wade Funeral Home, 70 Washington St., Taunton, MA
02780 on Saturday, December 16th from 8:30-10 am with a service to follow at 10 AM. A graveside service will be held at St. Joseph’s
Cemetery in Taunton immediately following the visiting hours.