Ojars "Olie" Silarais was born in Liepaja, Latvia, June 6, 1943. He died at his home in Baton Rouge on December 5, 2021, of natural causes. His parents were Elza Kapenieks Silarajs and Raimonds Silarajs. He is survived by his wife, Diane Knobloch Silarais, brother-in-law, Warren Knobloch, brothers Maris Silarais, Erik and sister-in-law Laura Macs, sister, Linda Macs, and nieces and nephews, Danielle, Dana and Gina Silarais, and John Macs, and special Latvian friends Erik and Shelia Lusins. As a very young child, Olie and his mother were forced to leave his home country of Lativa as Russia invaded during WWII. They traveled to displaced persons camp and remained there six years until a family member, Arvids Strelis, sponsored their coming to Boston. He proudly became a naturalized citizen. He attended schools including Boston Latin school, Dedham High School, and received his chemical engineering degree from Worchester Polytechnical Institute. He served his country in the Army during the Vietnam era. Olie resumed his professional career as a fire safety engineer and consultant covering chemical plants along the Gulf Coast. Appreciation is given to Dr. Harold Brandt, assistant Hillary R. Gelpi, and Dr. Carl Luikart for their medical assistance through the years. Olie was most loved by his family and friends. He enjoyed playing cards, especially bridge, and was an avid sports fan, particularly all Boston teams. He was most supportive of his wife's family and unselfishly gave of his time and talents to all in need. He was a man of much wisdom, integrity, and positive presence to all who knew him. Services will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Visitation will be held 9:30-10:30 a.m. with Mass celebrated by Fr. Miles Walsh at 10:30 am. Burial at Roselawn Cemetery will follow. Reception will be held in the church hall following the service.
