Obituary of Manuel Rodrigues Silva

Manuel Rodrigues Silva, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and cherished member of the community, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in his home in Shelton CT. He was 73 years old. Manuel was born in Chaves, Portugal, to Joaquim Francisco Gonçalves Da Silva and Maria da Glória Rodrigues da Silva. Manuel was filled with a passion for enjoying life to the fullest. He was a sportsman (hunter), a winemaker, and an excellent cook. He was a dedicated father to his two boys and worked tirelessly to ensure a bright future for his family. He enjoyed hosting friends and family with good humor and an abundance of good food. He loved being in nature and hunting game. He also enjoyed watching soccer and bantering with his brothers and friends at O'Manel Restaurant. Manuel served in the Portuguese military as a second sergeant. He was stationed in Portuguese East Timor before and during the Carnation Revolution (1971-1974). Upon moving to the United States from Portugal, Manuel embarked on a career journey that showcased his hard work and dedication. He worked as a metallurgical technician and machine operator at Handy & Harman for 26 years until the factory closed its doors. He then worked for the City of Bridgeport Water and Pollution Control Authority for 11 years. Manuel leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his family. He is survived by his wife Emilia Silva, his son Manuel J. Silva and wife Paulina Silva, his son Luis Silva and wife Maureen Ton, his grandchildren Natalie, Manuel D., Julian, and Leona, his siblings Elisabete Matias and husband Humberto, Fernando da Silva and wife Georgina, Jorge da Silva, Ilda Rodrigues da Silva (Cesar) and husband Joaquim, Graca da Silva, and Antonio Silva and wife Isabel, his uncle Jack Rodrigues of Trumbull and Cidalia Rodrigues da Silva of Portugal. He is predeceased by his brother Virgilio Da Silva and Francisco da Silva. Manuel also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews who adored him and will forever cherish his memory. Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating his legacy and sharing their condolences during this time of remembrance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 26th, 2024 at 11 am in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 429 Huntington Rd., Bridgeport. Burial will be private. For online condolences, please visit us at www.abriola.com.