Obituary of Maria Da Silva

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Maria De Fátima Pereira Da Silva, who entered into eternal rest on August 20, 2025, at the age of 69, surrounded by the love of her family.

Maria was born on June 3, 1956, in Alvites, Santiago da Ribeira de Alhariz, Portugal. She was the beloved daughter of Ondina De Fátima Pereira and the late Nicolau Medeiros of Portugal. Though she later made a life in Canada, her heart never left the village where she spent her childhood - Alvites. As a young girl, Maria spent most of her days by her father's side, helping care for the cattle and tending to the daily chores of life on the farm. 

Maria was the proud and loving mother of Jerry DaSilva (Sonia), Paulo DaSilva, and Nicole Puckerin (Carlos), each of whom carries forward her hardworking, determined, and loving spirit. She was a loving and playful Avó to her grandchildren Saint, Praise, and Noah, all of whom she treasured and loved deeply.

As the eldest of her siblings, she was a constant source of knowledge and strength. Leaving each with valuable life lessons and fond memories, she will be lovingly remembered by Jacinto Medeiros (Ana Maria), Arlindo Medeiros (Benicia), Elisabete Carneiro (Virgilio), and Fernando Medeiros (Nancy). Maria was adored and loved by many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Maria shared a warm and lasting bond with her dear aunt, Diamantina Medeiros, a relationship she cherished deeply throughout her life. 

At the age of 19 in 1975, Maria immigrated to Canada in search of new opportunities. Her journey took her through several provinces and cities, beginning in Chatham, then Toronto, followed by Alberta in 1982, and eventually back to Ontario in 1983. She worked tirelessly in a variety of jobs, including restaurants, farm work such as picking tomatoes and cucumbers, and in automotive factories to provide for her family and fund her dreams. Maria’s strong work ethic was something she was deeply proud of and known for. 

Maria met her beloved husband, Paulino DaSilva, in Toronto while they both worked at Ferma Food Products Ltd. They met at a company dance, and that chance encounter led to 47 years of marriage filled with hard work and shared dreams. 

Eventually, alongside her husband, she founded DaSilva & Sons Bakery in 1993. For 28 years, her hands shaped more than dough; they shaped relationships, memories, and traditions in the Portuguese community and beyond. Maria’s touch could be felt in every papo seco and in every customer connection. She may not have remembered your name, but she always knew your order. 

Maria found beauty and worth in things others might overlook. She had a special way of fixing what was broken and finding new purpose in old things. She poured that same care into her farm, taking great pride in raising animals and growing her own crops. The love she had for her animals was evident in the gentle way she treated and spoke to them. They were a steady and constant source of joy to her. 

Maria was a woman of deep faith. Her faith was a quiet but steady presence in her life. She regularly listened to Portuguese Mass online while tending her dough in the early mornings, and more recently, as part of her evening routine. 

A special thanks to all the staff of the Blenheim Chatham-Kent Family Health Team. We are especially thankful to Dr. Faith Moore and Nurse Shantel Cardoso who always cared for and listened to Maria.

Friends and relatives may visit at the Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home Ltd., 156 William St. S. Chatham from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM on Tuesday August 26, 2025. 

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday August 27, 2025 at 10:00 AM in St. Joseph's Church. Burial will be in Maple Leaf Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation. Online condolences and memories welcomed at www.peseski.com