Tribute Image

Leonardo DaSilva

September 18th, 1953 - May 7th, 2023
Write a Tribute

The family of Leonardo (Len) Alberto DaSilva are saddened to inform family and friends of Len's passing on May 7th 2023.

Len was born on Sept 18th 1953 in Hong Kong to parents Leo and Olga DaSilva. He was their youngest child and the only brother to sisters Marilyn and Carol. He was raised in Hong Kong until the family emigrated to Canada in 1969. Unfortunately, Len's father passed away of cancer shortly after they arrived. It was a difficult time in Len's life, but he continued his high school education at MRSS and lived with his Auntie Nan, Uncle Jerry, and cousins Marc and Paul Rosa until his graduation.

After high school he enrolled into the Chaminade University of Honolulu. While pursuing his degree in business, he lived with his sister Carol and his brother in law Johnny Monterio.  He had many happy stories of those "Island Days".

He returned to Canada in the mid 70's and worked at various jobs in the lower mainland of British Columbia. It was here in Maple Ridge that he met his future wife Tamara  (Tammy) Holmgren in 1977.

Len would once again return to Hawaii in order to complete his education. He received his MBA, graduating on the Dean's List.  He moved back to Maple Ridge and married Tammy on April 24th, 1981. He began a career which took the young couple to many different countries around the world. When he started working for the Duty Free companies he was transferred frequently.

In March of 1991 they welcomed their first son Joshua. Their second son Ryan, was born in July of 1994. These "boys" were the absolute light of Len's life. He adored his family. They returned home to Canada (Maple Ridge) on a permanent basis in 2006 where Len ultimately became COO of West Coast Duty Free. During his time off he visited with family, took his wife and sons on an Alaskan Cruise, went fishing for halibut off Haida Gwai or spent time in his yard and garden.

He remained at West Coast Duty Free until his unexpected illness and death in May 2023. He was predeceased by his father Leo in 1996 and his mother Olga in 2001. He leaves behind him his loving family, wife Tammy, sons Josh and Ryan, sisters Marilyn (Stephen, Brian, Gavin and Alison) and Carol (John, Michael and Desiree), and mother in law Maureen Holmgren (Michael, Heather, Philip, Paul and Braiden). There are numerous in laws, close relations and friends that were always welcome in Len's home. He was a most generous host who had a wide circle of friends from around the world.

A memorial service will be held on June 17th 2023 at 3 pm at Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel (11969 - 216 St Maple Ridge, BC). There will be no reception. In lieu of cards and flowers please consider a donation to the charity of your choice in Len's name.


Tributes

Mimi Vieira Bombardier
June 16th, 2023

I am saddened to learn of Len’s passing. After leaving the bank flats in the early 70s; so many of us went our varied & separate ways. Unfortunately our paths didn’t cross again before his untimely passing. I treasure our flowery, unique, eclectic, fun-filled childhood. My deepest sympathies to all the families. He will be fondly remembered.

Chuck Gould
May 19th, 2023

Len and i had a business relationship through West Coast Duty Free....moreover we were friends.....Len was special....a down to earth decent man who loved his family....Truly a man of total honesty and so much fun to be around....RIP Len......you are always in my thoughts

Write a Tribute

Please Note: Your tribute will NOT be posted until reviewed and approved by one of our staff.

Name
Email
Comment
Upload