Eddie Silva, third-generation Santa Maria grower, dies at 61
Eddie Silva, third-generation Santa Maria grower, dies at 61
Edward William Silva Jr., a third-generation vegetable grower in Santa Maria, CA, died March 8 after a heroic battle with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. He was 61.
Mr. Silva, who died peacefully at home with his family by his side, was born Dec. 3, 1953, and raised in Santa Maria. He attended Santa Maria High School and Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo before returning to work at Valley Growers, the family farming entity that primarily grows lettuce and broccoli.
Edward William Silva Jr.
In fact, 25 years ago this month, Mr. Silva was present at the White House representing California broccoli growers to deliver 10 tons of broccoli to President Bush, who had publicly expressed his dislike of the vegetable.
Known as a meticulous farmer, Mr. Silva produced high-quality vegetables for many decades, including millions of pounds of fresh broccoli. His sons Eddie and Clint, who represent the family’s fourth generation, along with his brother Larry, continue the family farming tradition.
Mr. Silva had a love of engines and how to maximize their performance. His passion for engines led to many accolades in the high-performance racing of cars and speed boats.
Mr. Silva remained dedicated to his beloved ranch and continued to go to work daily with his sons, even while dealing with his declining health.
In addition to his sons and brother, Mr. Silva is survived by his mother, Helen; sisters Diane Polley and Donna Brunello; and grandchildren Ava Rose Silva and Eddie Silva IV.
Visitation was scheduled for March 15, with a private family burial to be held at a later date. Those wishing to honor his memory can send donations to the California Central Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, 1528 Chapala Street #204, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101; or The Edward W. Silva Memorial Internship Endowment in care of Cal Poly Advancement Services, 1 Grand Ave. Building #116 San Luis Obispo, CA, 93407.
