PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Richard Edward Silvano Sr., 82, of 41 Melbourne Road, Pittsfield, passed away April 9, 2018, at Berkshire Medical Center. 

He was born March 6, 1936 to the late Paul and Vada Guyette Silvano. He went to St. Joseph’s for grade school and attended Pittsfield High School. Richard married the love of his life, the former Maxine Kelly on October 31, 1959. He was in the US Marines for 14 years, having served in the Korean War. He also worked for his son at Silvano Painting Inc. 

Dick enlisted in the US Marine corps in 1954 and reached the rank of Gunnery sergeant in 1968, when he retired with 100% disability. During his time in the Marines, he served in Korea and with the Marine detachment on the aircraft carrier USS Bennington. While aboard the Bennington, he traveled to South America, Australia, China, Japan and the Philippines. He was stationed with his family in Hawaii, California, North Carolina and South Carolina. 

Richard enjoyed cooking, traveling, going to casinos, and vacationing with his family. He played football when he was in the Marines. He really loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He leaves behind his wife, Maxine Silvano of Pittsfield; his sons, Richard E. Silvano Jr. and his wife Paula of Pittsfield and John Silvano and his wife Brenda of North Adams; daughters Melanie Silvano of Hinsdale, N.H., Suzane Silvano of Pittsfield and Jaqueline SIlvano and her significant other, Muhammad Zafer of Dalton; seven grandchildren, Sarah Oduro and her husband Kwame, Racheal Silvano, Mitchelle Forfa, Richard Silvano III, Ryan Silvano, Caleb Nhim and Thea Nhim; three great-grandchildren, Brandon Silvano, Elijah Oduro and Eva Oduro; his brother, Gene Silvagni of Pittsfield; and sister Faye Kalinski of Pittsfield. 

He was predeceased by his brother, Paul Silvagni; and sister Juanita Kitterman. He also leaves many brothers- and sisters-in-laws. 

Funeral notice: Funeral services for Richard will be held Thursday, April 12, 2018, at 9 a.m. at Dery Funeral Home with Rev. Peter A. Gregory officiating. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, April 11, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter or Disabled Veterans of America, in care of the funeral home.