Frank Carl Silva

Frank Carl Silva was born on January 6, 1937, in Merced, California, and passed away on March 7, 2026, in Fresno, California, at the age of 89.

As a teenager, Frank worked two jobs—a paper route and at Selb's, a women's clothing store—to save enough money to purchase his first car while in high school. After graduating, he began working at Lud's Auto Parts. He later worked as a crane operator for PG&E, helping build the large towers in Redding, before going on to work for Coca-Cola Company in Merced as a refrigeration technician for 35 years. Frank also spent time working for Hamit Construction pouring concrete.

From a young age, Frank had a deep passion for automotive mechanics. He first learned the trade from his brother, Bill Silva, and by working alongside his cousin, Lester Codd, at 99 Garage in Merced. Throughout his life, he collected and restored many classic cars and trucks, a hobby that brought him great pride and joy.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Frank built a 1930 Model A pickup with a Studebaker engine. It served as his daily driver, and on weekends he drag raced it at Ballico Drag Strip, where he won several trophies. He became the record holder in his racing class, earning the distinguished record holder jacket. Frank also drove the 1930 Model A pickup as the trophy car at Merced Speedway, during the 1960s.

Above all, Frank cherished time spent with his family. He loved boating with his children and built a houseboat from the ground up, which was kept on Lake McClure, where countless family vacations and memories were made. His children learned to water ski behind his one-of-a-kind Bischoff flat-bottom boat, creating memories they will treasure forever.

Frank also enjoyed being active in his community and was a proud member of several local organizations, including Elks Lodge for 52 years, Itlao Lodge, Club Mercedes, and the Eagles Club.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Henrietta Silva; his brothers, Bill Silva and Melvin Silva; and his sister, Laverne Banks.

He is survived by his children, Susan Burkhart, Darren Silva, and wife Shelley Silva; his grandchildren, Brandon Silva and wife Julietta, Nicole Silva, Kayla Silva, and Kevin Beaty; and his beloved great-granddaughter, Eleina Silva.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 10:30am at:

Evergreen Funeral Home
1480 B Street
Merced, CA

A graveside service will follow at 12:00pm at:

Calvary Cemetery
260 W. Childs Avenue
Merced, CA

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.