Mrs. Maria Elvina Silva

Obituary

Maria Elvina Silva, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and dear friend peacefully passed away surrounded by her family at age 82 on September 28, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario.

She is survived by her loving children Valdemar Silva (Alma) and Debbie Bettencourt (Marcio), her devoted grandchildren Jason Silva (Kendall) and Sirena Schiebel (Jamie), and her adoring great grandchildren Liam and Theo Silva and James Schiebel. Maria is also survived by her siblings Manuel Cunha (Fatima) and Albano Cunha.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Manuel Silva; her sister Silvina Arruda; her brother-in-law Humberto Arruda; her sister-in-law Maria Lima; her brother-in-law Antonio Lisboa and her parents Luis and Maria Da Cunha.

Born in Graciosa Azores, immigrated to Canada in 1960 to Cornwall, Ontario to help Canadian families farm the land. They later made Toronto, Ontario their home, creating a fulfilling life for their children extending their support to family members immigrating to Canada.

Maria had a deep passion for music and dancing. Alongside her husband Manuel she played a proud role as a founding member of the Graciosa Community Centre.  They not only served as directors for the community centre but also relished countless Saturday nights filled with dancing, laughter and cherished moments with family and friends. Maria’s love for music extended to her participation in folk groups alongside her father and brother, entertaining audiences at the community centre. Even as her health declined, music continued to be a source of joy, and she danced with her family until her final days.

Though her earthly dance has ended, her spirit will forever dance in our hearts.

May she rest in eternal peace, forever surrounded by the music she loved.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Maria's memory are asked to consider the Alzheimer's Society or Kensington Health with funds designated to Kensington Hospice.

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