Chris Silva

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Cristobal B. Silva. He was born on October 5, 1944 in McAllen, Texas to Tomasa & Cayetano Silva. He passed away to be with the Lord on August 27, 2025 surrounded by his family.

He was an amazing father and grandfather. He was a hard working man that loved to do and provide for his family. He loved to travel and take the whole family with in-laws, nieces and nephews on vacations. He has a love for classic cars that he enjoyed working on with his sons. He was a resident of the Coachella Valley since the late 50's. He had many proud moments in his life. He graduated from Coachella Valley High School in 1964, with a recognition of "Student on the Year in 1964". It's no wonder that he achieved great accomplishments in his lifetime. He had a calling to help his community and his Country. He served in The United States Marine Corps E5 from 1965 to 1968. He became a small weapons expert and advanced to the rank of Sergeant. He proudly served in Vietnam. It became evident later on in his life that his health would suffer due to exposure during this time in his life. He was a very proud United States Marine.

In the early 60's he joined the Young Democrats to help John F. Kennedy win his United States Presidency. He felt a calling to help and improve his community. In the 70's and 80's he worked with Cesar Chavez and the Mexican American Political Association. During this time he also got involved with California state politics. In the early 80's Governor George Deukmejian came personally to Indio to recruit Chris to come and work for the governor during his time in office 1983-1991. But to Chris and his family business came first. He promised the governor that he would continue to help him and the future governor Peter Wilson in later years. He also got more involved with the City of Indio. Serving as a Planning Commissioner, City Counselman in the 90's and from then Mayor for the City of Indio 1998-1999. He was a big proponent of city fiscal accountability and to push out the city master plan to 50 years, to better account for the future growth North of the I-10 Freeway. During his time in office he was so proud and often shared his experiences with family and friends. He was very passionate about his work for the City of Indio and equally passionate in his family business, Silva's Radiator & A/C and Silva's Charter & Tours.

He was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Chris was also a member of many groups, Knights of Columbus Lodge 3215, Masons Lodge 476, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3699, Kiwanis International and also for decades volunteered for the Riverside County National Date Festival. He was known for his humor, love of fishing, photography and always his dedication to a particular cause.

He is survived by his sons David Silva, Daniel Silva and Chris Silva Jr, eight grandchildren and one great grand baby. He is also survived by eight brothers and one sister as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Tomasa B. Silva & Cayetano P. Silva and also by siblings Albino Silva, Frank Silva, Pedro Silva and Celia Silva.

A Prayer and Blessing service will take place at:

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church

45118 Park Street, Indio, California 92201

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025

At 12:00 Noon

His resting place will be at:

Riverside National Cemetery

October 6, 2025 at 12:45pm