Dennis Silveria

Dennis was born in Vallejo, CA and was a life long resident of Benicia. He attended Benicia schools and served in the 101st Airborne Division of the US Army. He began his career in 1960 at Yuba Manufacturing in Benica. When it closed he went to work at Mare Island Naval Shipyard for many years until its closure. He then transferred to Beale Air Force Base until his retirement in 1999. Not yet ready to officially retire he enjoyed a variety of part time endeavors which kept him active well into his 70’s. Dennis and Bonnie Byerrum married in 1961 and celebrated their 62nd anniversary this past December. Their one son Brian born in 1967 passed away in 2010. During Brian’s youth Dennis was active coaching Little League, PAL and American Legion Baseball. In his youth Dennis enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing softball and being a football and baseball spectator. His entire adult life he loved watching boxing and for the last 20 years he was a super NASCAR fan. He was an active member of the BHS Boosters while Brian attended high school. As such he was part of the group that installed the first set of lights on the Panther’s football field as well as building the girl’s softball field. Dennis enjoyed traveling and together with Bonnie made several trips to Hawaii. He loved their excursions to Mexico with close friends Jack and Judy Stiltz. They spent many enjoyable times traveling with a group of friends to their favorite RV spots in the South West and California. He enjoyed going to Reno or Las Vegas, but for the last 15 years his trips to Cache Creek with buddies Jack Stiltz and Charlie Wingert was his favorite place to go. Dennis was predeceased by his father Charles Silveria and mother Phoebe Moniz Silveria, sister Connie Smithers, brother Joseph and son Brian. He is survived by his wife Bonnie, daughter-in-law Cynthia, granddaughters Allison and Phoebe, Godson Greg Silva, sisters-in-law Christine (Leonard) Giordano, Sally (Earl) Bennett and Judy (Phil) Baldi. He, also, leaves behind many nieces and nephews and long-time friends Charles and Hope Wingert and their children. Dennis was a man of few words, who listened with patience and care. And when he spoke you listened. He had a quick wit, which everyone enjoyed. Not one to draw attention in a crowd, you still felt the comfort in his presence. As a man whose steadfast strength and endurance was truly legendary. He will be missed and remembers with affection and admiration for all fortunate enough to know him. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Soroptimist International of Benicia – PO Box 282 Benicia CA 94510 which will be dedicated towards their House of Hope.

Dennis Silveria

June 24, 1940 - January 7, 2024