Evelyn Josephine Silva, age 99, passed away peacefully on June 14th in Gustine, CA surrounded by family.
Born on September 29th, 1925 in Arcata, California, Evelyn moved to Stevinson California to live with family at 13 years old. While working at the Turlock bomb plant, through a friend, she met her husband, Tony Silva. They were married for over 50 years and had a full life together that led to her doing “a lot of crazy things” as Evelyn would describe her younger years.
Evelyn had many jobs growing up. She started at age 13 at Frank and Mary’s Store in Stevinson, then she was “Rosie the Riveter” at a bomb plant during the war, and after the war she had numerous other jobs, where she always made new friends. She retired from Patterson Frozen Foods after being there for over 25 years.
Evelyn enjoyed camping & fishing with family and friends, visiting the beach, cooking, baking and hearing the casino bells ring. She loved to crochet and embroider, skills she learned as a child from her mother. She made many beautiful gifts for family and friends.
Evelyn’s home was always open to family and friends and it was the center of many celebrations and holidays. She made sure there was always plenty to eat and drink, along with always having stories to share.
Evelyn is survived by her children, Nancy (Eloy) Ramirez of Union City and Peggy Vargas of Gustine; grandchildren, Tracy (Don) Bedford, Travis Vargas, Becky (Jerry) Lee and Greg (Piia) Ramirez; great-grandchildren, Hannah, Sarah, Kaylah, Gabriel, Alex and Niina.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, Reis Maria and Antone Rocha; sibling, Mary DeSalles and baby siblings, Celeste and Inez; her beloved husband, Tony and son, Mike (Hippy).
A Visitation will be held at 8:30am to 10:00am followed by the Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles in Gustine. Interment to follow at Sunnyside Cemetery in Stevinson.
In lieu of flowers donation can be made to OLM, 370 Linden Avenue, Gustine, CA 95322. GUSTO, P.O. Box 431, Gustine, CA 95322 or an organization of your choice.
Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Gustine.
