Clara L. Silva

Clara Louise Silva, a beloved mother, and grandmother passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the remarkable age of 98.

Born on March 21, 1927, in Hanford, California, Clara was the daughter of Joseph and Marie Hahn. As a young girl, she helped her dad on the Hahn family farm in Lemoore— preferring the outdoors to the work inside.

After graduating from high school, Clara moved to Fresno with her sister, Dorothy. There, she earned her associate’s degree from 4C’s College and became a bookkeeper. The sisters enjoyed going to dances and travelling in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It was in Fresno that Clara met the love of her life, Leonard Silva. The two were married on November 6, 1954, in a double wedding with Dorothy and her husband Ross Turano—a memory that became a unique family story.

Clara and Leonard settled in Hanford, California, where they raised seven children. Clara balanced the tasks of motherhood—bandaging scraped knees, preserving fruit, managing a lively household— with love and patience. Yet she always made time for her passions.

Clara had a green thumb and enjoyed tending her flower garden. Her faith was central to her life. She not only taught catechism at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church but also served as director of the program for many years. Later, she became a eucharistic minister and active member of the altar society.

Even in her later years, Clara’s love of travel remained strong. She continued exploring with her son Rodney, sharing a number of trips throughout the U.S.

Clara is survived by her seven children: Thomas Silva (Becky), Rodney Silva (Maryann), Gregory Silva (Sara), Barry Silva (Janet), Jeffery Silva (Janine), Ann Brumley (Don), and Marilyn Silva (David Whitney); her sisters Dorothy Turano and Kathleen Johnson; and a large, loving family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Leonard Silva, and her brother, Leon Hahn.

A rosary will be held on Thursday, June 12th at 6:00 p.m. at Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Service in Hanford. Graveside services will follow at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 13th at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella

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