MANLIO LULE "MARIO" SILVA

MANLIO "MARIO" LULE SILVA

June 6, 1935 - Mar. 29, 2015

One of Brawley's most generous businessman, Manlio Lule Silva, best known as "Mario de La Providencia," died Sunday afternoon. He was 79. Silva was born in the heart of Mexico in the town of Salvatierra, Guanajuato to Maria Refugio Lule and Joaquin Silva. Inspired by the American Dream and the hope for a better life, Silva left his home at the age of 16, headed first to Chicago where he worked on the Illinois Railroad. He later made his way to the Imperial Valley to work beside his father as a cook at the Elmore Desert Ranch. After making the Valley his new home, Silva returned to Mexico to wed his childhood sweetheart Nicholasa Murillo. Through hard work, determination and the constant support of his family, Silva was able to open a small grocery store in Brawley called "La Providencia Market" about 10 years later. Understanding the presence of a large Hispanic audience, Silva's store sold an array of meat products and was one of the first businesses to introduce carne asada to Brawley. He also strived to provide traditional Mexican products and spices to the community. While operating his family-run business, Silva became increasingly aware of the economic struggles facing many in the Valley. Motivated to help, he provided several families with store credit allowing them the opportunity buy groceries when times were hard. His generosity and caring nature gained the recognition of the then Gov. George Deukmejian and provided him the opportunity to meet civil rights activist Cesar Chavez.
Silva is survived by his wife, Nicholasa; children, Rocio Silva-Ramirez, Elsa Alvarez, Manlio Jr. Silva, Everardo Silva and Gustavo Silva; 5 siblings, 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Manlio " Mario" will be missed by all.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Frye Chapel and Mortuary in Brawley. Rosary will be held on Friday, April 10 at 8:30 a.m. at Saint Margaret Mary Church in Brawley. Burial will immediately follow at Riverview Cemetery in Brawley.