Ricardo J. DaSilva

Ricardo (Richard) J. DaSilva, Sr., not long after celebrating his 87th birthday, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on August 31, 2025. Born and raised in Whitman, MA by loving parents Antonio and Lena (Mello) DaSilva, Ricardo was one out of 10 children living on his parent’s farm. From a young age, hard work and dedication were instilled in him, leading him to become self employed as a cabinet maker for the majority of his working life.

He married his childhood sweetheart, Carol Jean, in 1957, and they were happily married for over 63 years until Carol’s passing in 2020.

Ricardo was an avid outdoorsman, spending as much time as he could out in nature either hunting or fishing. His love for the outdoors extended out into his involvement in local nonprofits, such as leading the local chapter of Ducks Unlimited, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of wetlands. He also spent time singing in an all men’s choir, happily trading out his hunting gear for a black-and-white tuxedo.

Above all else, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family and friends. Some of his favorite trips involved hunting in Montana with his best friend, Scott, and fishing in Mexico with his son, Joe, and brother, Charlie. He also loved heading down to Florida to see his sisters, Rosie and Rina.

Ricardo had a heart bigger than himself and will surely be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.

He was predeceased by his parents; loving wife, Carol Jean; son Ricardo Joseph, Jr.; and grandson Ricardo Joseph, III.

Ricardo is survived by his daughter Melissa and son-in-law Daniel; four granddaughters: Haleigh, Lindsay, Carli J, and Jacie; two sisters: Rina and Rose; brother Charlie; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also, no one can forget his beloved dog, Baxter, who was constantly at his side.

A graveside service will take place at 11am on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Oak Lawn Cemetery, 1530 Bronson Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824. This service will be livestreamed.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Ricardo’s name to Fairfield County Walk to End Alzheimer’s.