Life Legacy

On Sunday, January 17, 2016, our beloved Miguel Gabriel Silva of Las Cruces left his earthly home. He was preceded in death by his brother Andres Zenon Silva and parents, Zenon Contreras Silva and Julia Parra Silva. Miguel (age 55) was born in Willcox, Arizona, February 16, 1960. Miguel is survived by his siblings Frank Henry Silva (JoAnne), Margaret Silva Whelan (John), Dario David Silva (Dr. Denise A. Leonardi), Maria Antonia Silva-Sutton (Jeff) and sister-in-law Lorraine Silva (Andres). As an accomplished magician and family clown, Miguel was a wonderful source of joy to his many nieces and nephews, Johnnie Ray Whelan (Naomi), Andrea Whelan Maestas (Brianne, Charlie Ray), Luther Whelan (Faith, Johnny, Jewel, Fantasy Eve), Mathew Whelan, Zenon Nicolas Silva, Adam Silva (Reese, Henry) Noah Silva, Julia Silva, and Trinity Silva. In addition to his family, Miguel is also survived by his buddy "Tiger" and his love, Kate Fennel Carlson. A graduate of New Mexico State University and the "School of Silva Sanitation", Miguel was passionate about the environment and conservation. He shared his passion and expertise for 8 years as the Las Cruces Councilman for District 1. Miguel encouraged environmental, structural, and social changes for the City of Las Cruces and was proud of the downtown renovation, especially the Farmer's Market. He also served briefly as a Dona Ana County Commissioner. Miguel was involved in many diverse community projects that ranged from being one of the founders of Mesilla Dia de los Muertos celebration, to being involved in the tax parade. He served on the board of the Animal Service Center of Mesilla Valley. He volunteered at the former Court Youth Center, Las Esperanza and the Border Book Festival. He was a great supporter of the LGBT community, and the Dona Ana Arts Council. Miguel always wore his heart on his sleeve. As an English Adjunct Instructor (DACC) Miguel encouraged students to read, read, and then read some more. And along the way, he wanted his students to THINK, write, but most of all believe in themselves and what they could accomplish. Miguel's Catholic faith was inscribed on his heart. He was always reaching out to the underdog, the homeless, and the sick. Miguel was a tireless humanitarian; a sensitive man wanting to make a difference for people and the city he loved. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope or a service charity of your choice. A visitation will be held Friday, January 22, 2016 from 6 and 7 PM at St. Albert the Great Newman Center (2615 Solano St., Las Cruces) followed by a rosary at 7:00 PM. The funeral mass will be 10:00 AM Saturday, January 23 also at the Newman Center with Father Ray Flores officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers; Johnnie Ray Whelan, Andrea Whelan Maestas, Matthew Whelan, Johnny Whelan, Nicolas Silva, Noah Silva, Julia Silva,Trinity Silva. PDF Printable Version