Mike Silvestro

Mike was the beloved husband of Sonia (nee Louis) for 31 years. Mike was the deeply loved son of Theresa and the late Luigi Silvestro (2011). Cherished brother of Rosemary and Peter Misurka, as well as Pat Silvestro (Judy Hooper). Mike was the proud uncle of Melissa Vadala, and Marlo and Lauren Silvestro. As well, he was the great uncle to Ava and Charlotte Vadala. Mike will also be lovingly remembered by his mother-in-law Jeannine Rysdyk.

Some of his greatest joy came from his quiet moments in Southampton, Ontario with his wife Sonia. They created many memories watching sunsets on the beach, needing nothing but a glass of wine and each other in hand.

Those who knew Mike, knew of his heartbreaking battle for the last 15 years with a degenerative neurological condition. Despite his struggles with mobility, Mike never lost his determination to experience life. Instead his wish was to carry on as himself, often hiding the reality of his struggles from his loved ones- this being a testament to the person he was. He did not let people see the undeniable strength his life required for assistance or recognition. Instead, he chose to carry the burden of his suffering alone, as it would be more difficult for him to believe he was causing pain to others.

Mike had the unquenchable thirst for knowledge. When something sparked interest inside of him, he ensured that he knew every detail of that topic. He was the type of person that was so obsessively precise that he had the patience to read every word of an instruction manual from front to back. No matter his condition, he never lost his curiosity for life and all of its oddities. His fascinations spanned from music, film, technology, and culture. A love that led him to passionately support local artists and businesses.

Mike was fiercely loyal to those who earned his admiration. In particular, his loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers was known to all. Football was a source of community in Mike's life, so much so that it was a cherished tradition for him to host (Stella in hand), a conference finals party for all of his cousins; who were brothers to him in every chapter of life.

Every family birthday was happier because Mike was there. His nieces will never forget him rallying all the children at the table to chant; "CAKE! CAKE! CAKE!", as soon as plates were cleared from dinner. A small tradition that displays how he was one of the rare few to never lose their sense of childlike wonder.

Mike held very strong values which translated into undeniable charisma. Humour and charm came naturally to him, which was why he was so beloved by the many friends he spent his life with.

Mike was never scared of a good time; a love of joy that allowed him to create so many good times for others.

His legacy will carry on, forever reminding us that we may not control the things that happen to us, but we do control our spirit. Mike's spirit was unyielding, especially in the final years of his life when everyday tasks grew exceptionally difficult. We go forward choosing a life of joy in Mike's memory.

Family and friends will be received at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Hart Chapel, located at 1099 Gordon St., Guelph, ON, N1G 4X9, Canada. The visitation will take place on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and again from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

The funeral mass is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at St. John the Baptist Parish, 45 Victoria Rd N, Guelph, ON, N1E 5G9, Canada- the same church that shaped Mike's faith and love of community, and where he served in his youth as an altar boy.

There are no words to fully express our gratitude to the friends and family who have gathered to show their love for Mike and for our family during this time. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Guelph first responders for doing everything they could.

Donations made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.