JOSEPH S. SILVA

Joseph passed away after a very long illness (Alzheimer's) at the Franciscan Health Care Center in Merced CA. Parents, Mariana and Joe P. Silva were visiting the Island of Pico in the Azores when Joseph was born and later returned to Patterson California where he was raised.
Joe attended Modesto Junior College and UC Davis before enlisting into the
United States Army Air Corp. He was stationed at Merced Army Air Field (Castle) as a
pilot flight instructor, during which time he met and married the love of his life,
for 66 years, Thelma Vergano Silva.
Joe is survived by his wife Thelma, a daughter, Jan Renee Marcoux (Norman) of Carmichael CA and granddaughter Megan Marcoux, grandson John Marcoux (Dara) and a great grandson Quinn. He also leaves a sister, June Fones of Redwood City, CA.
Joe was engaged in farming for many years and was a partner with Tuttle Farms. After retiring from farming, he worked for Merced County.
Joe was a member of Our Lady of Mercy and Saint Patrick's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus - 4thDegree and the American Legion.
To the Franciscan Health Care Center, Joe's family expresses their heartfelt appreciation for the tender loving care during his long stay.
There will be no formal services, Private family services are pending.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ivers & Alcorn Funeral Home, 901 West Main Street-Merced, CA or you may call 1-209-722-6201.