Ruben Silva went home to be with the Lord, surrounded by family, on March 4, 2015. He was 70 years old.

Ruben is survived by his wife of 49 years Gladys, children, Ruben Siva Jr. (Cheryl) of Brandon Florida, Dawn Wenzel (Glenn) of Gibsonton, Florida, Daniel Silva (Maria) of Dover Florida; his 8 grandchildren; and his 3 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by an infant son, David.

Ruben was born on April 24, 1944 in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico to Salvador and Mariana Silva. He spent is youth traveling between New York and Puerto Rico during which time he was involved in various sports including, Track, Baseball, Volleyball, and Softball. After high school Ruben attended trade school and had a career in auto body repair spanning 40 years having worked in both New York and Florida. Ruben married his childhood sweet heart, Gladys Hernandez, on June 12, 1965, surrounded by family and friends. Together they eventually moved to the Valrico, Florida area and became respected members of their community. Ruben's passing occurred within 3 months of their 50th wedding anniversary.

In addition to his successful career; Ruben had many hobbies for which he was well known. Prior to his illness, he could often be found coordinating actives and the sports programs for his church. He was an accomplished "green thumb" with the ability to grow just about any plant. His pride was his tranquil yard which boasted many flowers, fruits and vegetables often sharing his harvest with his family and friends. He also was an accomplished stained glass artisan for which his work can still be found in many churches and homes from North Alabama to the central Florida area.

Ruben passed away after a thirteen year battle with Alzheimer's. It is to be dutifully noted that Ruben's has had several siblings who have also battled this disease. While he succumbed to Alzheimer's after a valiant fight, it does not diminish his many accomplishments and the rich life he enjoyed.

A celebration of life service is scheduled for March, 21, 2015, 2:00 PM at Wholesome Church, 16110 South US 301, Wimauma, FL 33598 with a reception to follow.



In Lieu of Flowers, the family request donations be made to the following Charities:



"Silva Bullets" 2015 Walk to end Alzheimer's Team: http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2015/General?team_id=261780&pg=team&fr_id=7403

Or

LifePath Hospice: https://lifepathhospice.chaptershealth.org/GeneralDonation