TRURO — Richard A. “Dickie” Silva of North Truro died peacefully on March 25, 2020, at Harbor Point at Centerville, the assisted living facility where he had been for the last year. He was 83.
Dickie was born in Provincetown, the son of the late James M. and Eva (Pierce) Silva. When he turned 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served his country proudly in the Strategic Air Command during the Korean War.
Upon returning home he worked with his father doing small construction jobs. He also worked for George Colley Seafood Packers, hauling fish to New York, Canada, and Pennsylvania. He relocated to Springfield and continued driving, often making long-distance hauls. He eventually returned to Provincetown and worked with his brother, Warren “Pinky” Silva. He also continued to drive trucks, which he loved doing.
In 1976 Dick joined Engine 3 of the Provincetown Fire Dept. In 1978, he went to work for the town and eventually became director of operations at the DPW and highway superintendent. He retired in January 2000.
He and Sheila E. Costa were married in 1985.
Dick loved fishing and eagerly looked forward to getting his over-sand permit. He enjoyed playing the slots at the casino and would happily recount the time he “hit it big.” He also loved scratch tickets and thought those were the best birthday or Christmas gift. He and Sheila spent many happy years together traveling to Florida, Colorado, and Foxwoods.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, Warren Silva, and wife Rita, and sister, Shirley Cabral, all of Provincetown; his daughters, Marie Hopkins and husband Junius of Sandwich, Judith Reece and husband Dennis of Texas, Robin Millard of Southbridge, Bonnie Colon and husband Ronald of Southbridge, Anne Boulos and husband Thomas of Southbridge, Beth Angelini and husband Bill of Attleboro, and Betty-Jo Silva of Harwich. He is also survived by 26 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his stepchildren, Christine Roderick and husband Ryan of Milbridge, Maine, Karen Silva and husband Paul of Provincetown, James Costa and wife Jennifer Neargardner of Colorado Springs, and Michael Costa and wife Simone Ivy of Provincetown. He was predeceased by his children Angela, Ricky, and Randy and grandchildren Tharen, Adam, and Candace.
Due to the current health crisis and restrictions on gatherings, Dick’s graveside service will be private. Burial will be in Provincetown Cemetery. A memorial visitation with the family honoring Dick’s life will be held at the Gately Funeral Home in the fall, at a date and time to be announced.
Contributions in Dick’s memory can be made to the Carrie A. Seamen Animal Shelter, 5 Sandy Hill Lane, Provincetown 02657.
An online guest book for expressions of condolence for the family may be found at gatelyfuneralservice.com.
