Rudolph Rudy Mendivil Silva

Rudolph (Rudy) Mendivil Silva, age 96, a long-time resident of Prairie Grove, Arkansas passed from this life into the next on Saturday, March 29, 2025.

He and the true love of his life, Bessie Kirk, were married January 3, 1954 in Chicago, IL. He proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne division of the Army stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Rudy and Bessie raised 8 children. He moved his family to Prairie Grove from Chicago in 1972, after working as a tool and die craftsman, and raised laying hens for Tyson Foods until retiring in 1991.

Rudy was the foundation of his family. He was a role model and demonstrated all the things you want a parent to be - loving, honest, hard-working, faithful, and generous. Rudy was a friend to all he met and treated everyone with dignity and respect. He never met a stranger and welcomed everyone into his home. He was happiest when surrounded by family and sharing a home-cooked meal.

Our cherished memories of all the good times, laughter, playing games and working together will sustain us as we celebrate a life well lived.

The family wants to give its heartfelt appreciation to Linda and Tim Rathell for their thoughtful and loving care for Dad in their home during the last 18 months. We also want to acknowledge caregiver Bobbie Reynolds and the wonderful staff at Heroes Haven in the Veterans Hospital.

Rudy was preceded in death by his dear wife, Bessie Dean Kirk Silva, daughter, Carol Lynn Collins, and son, Rudy Jr.

Survived by Carl Collins, (Lezli) of California, Jeff Silva (Mary Jane) Fayetteville, Mark Silva (Debra) of Farmington, Linda Rathell (Tim) also of Farmington, Tony Silva of Elkins, John Silva (Heather) of Tontitown. Twelve grandchildren, Paul, Steven, Nicole, Rose, Kyle, Rachel, Jordan, Evan, Chrystal, Justin, Jonathan, Stephen. Fourteen great-grandchildren- Gibson, Claire, Jacob, Marley, Cortlyn, Judah, Selah, Charlize, Anastasia, Konner, Weston & Emmalynn, Brittany & Erica

The family will receive friends Thursday, April 3, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM at the Prairie Grove Christian Church 611 Wayne Villines Rd., Prairie Grove, Arkansas.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, at Prairie Grove Christian Church in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Burial will be in the Prairie Grove Cemetery in Prairie Grove, Arkansas.

Online Guestbook: www.luginbuel.com