Rex Allen Silvernail

Rex Allen Silvernail
1941 - 2013
Rex Allen Silvernail of Portland, OR, and formerly Boise, ID died peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 25th, 2013 at the age of 71. Born November 21, 1941 in Puyallup, WA to Allan and Muriel Silvernail, Rex grew up quickly after losing his father when he was just 12 years old. This tragic loss instilled a sense of independence and curiosity for the world around him, which he maintained throughout his life. Upon graduation from W. Washington University, Rex worked for Crown Zellerbach then owned a Dairy Queen in Boise while raising a family and dabbling in art along the way. He lived his life by his favorite quote, "Follow your bliss and doors will open where there were no doors before." Once his children were grown, he received a second degree in Finance from BSU then resumed his love of art, earning an MFA from N. Illinois University. He was proud to be known as Vagabond Grandfather due to his many adventures including teaching sculpture at Loyola University in Chicago, living with the Getsan Indians of Hazelton, BC where he learned ancient artwork techniques as a Fulbright Scholar, fabricating sculptures at Valley Bronze in Joseph, OR, and exposing others to art in Cannon Beach, OR. When not creating new sculptures, maintaining his wooded acreage, or building kayaks, he could be found traveling to visit his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed kayaking, biking, and backpacking in pristine settings of the world. He especially enjoyed sharing his love of art and the outdoors with his grandchildren. Survivors include sister Penny Weller of Washington, and children Garth (Marlies) Silvernail of Texas, Kathleen (Derick) O'Neill of Boise, Jay (Eva) Silvernail of Iceland, Jennifer (Troy) St. Pierre of Boise, and grandchildren Shilo and Chance Silvernail; Maison, Drake and Paul O'Neill; Mia Silvernail; Avery and Piper Kent, Ella, Joseph and Ivana St. Pierre.