Robert "Bob" Leal Silva

September 5, 1925 – September 23, 2026

Robert “Bob” Leal Silva, 101, passed away peacefully at home on September 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his children.

Bob was born on September 5, 1925, in Fredericksburg, Texas, to Crecencio and Epifania Leal. He grew up with a strong foundation of faith, family, and hard work.

Bob met the love of his life, Beatrice, and the two were married for 51 years. Together, they built a life centered around their family, their faith, and the simple joys of being together. Although Beatrice passed away in 2008, the love they shared continued to be a lasting part of Bob’s life.

Bob dedicated his life to his family and to God. He was a hardworking man who believed in doing what needed to be done and helping others whenever he could. He retired from Fruehauf Trailer Company after 42 years, but retirement did not stop him. He later enjoyed working at a recycling center near Sam’s Club, where he continued doing what came naturally to him, working hard and lending a helping hand to others.

His faith was an important part of Bob’s life. Over the years, he was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Fort Wayne and St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Avilla. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 451 for 60 years and was honored with an honorary life membership in recognition of his longtime dedication and service. Bob was also a member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, where his faith and desire to help others were put into action. Serving others was simply part of who Bob was, and he never expected anything in return.

Bob was known for his generosity, quiet strength, strong work ethic, and devotion to his family. If someone needed help, he was there. And if you knew Bob well, you also knew that he was a true Detroit Lions fan, faithfully cheering them on through every season, win or loss. He enjoyed the simple moments that brought family together, whether gathered around a poker table with family or sitting down for a game of Uno with his great-grandchildren.

Bob is survived by his siblings, Donaciano Silva, Erasmos Silva, Maria Eustolia Alaniz, and Jose Silva; his children, Gabriel (Deb) Silva, Nora (Mike) Mudrack, Molly Butler, Chris (Mary) Silva, David (Elisa) Silva, Mary (Russ) Gater, and Lita (John) Leffers; 21 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beatrice Silva; daughters, Betty Lou and Sarah Ann Silva; son Robert Silva; son-in-law, Jay Butler; grandsons, Brian and Tony Silva; sisters, Amelia Perez and Benilde Saenz; brother, Jesus Silva; and his parents, Crecencio and Epifania Leal.

Bob leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, hard work, kindness, and service. His 101 years were filled with the love of generations of family, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at Saint Patrick Catholic Church of Arcola, located at 12305 Arcola Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46818, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by Mass. With an immediate graveside service and burial at Fort Wayne Catholic Cemetery, located at 3500 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church of Arcola.