Edward F. Silhavy, age 96 of Valparaiso, passed away February 18, 2013. He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence M. (Cook) Silhavy, son and daughter-in-law, Edward W. and Dora Silhavy. Also preceding him in death were his parents, 4 brothers and 4 sisters. He is survived by his son Terry L. Silhavy, and daughter, Linda R. (Michael) Fishback of Valparaiso, more than 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Edward was the youngest of nine children and is the oldest living Silhavy on record. He was close to and very loved by many surviving nieces and nephews. He was born in Coal City, Illinois, on March 18, 1916, the son of Joseph and Marie Silhavy. He married the love of his life on June 1, 1940 in Hobart and they were married almost 50 years. He lived most of his life in Valparaiso. His son, Terry, now 54, was born with a developmental disability. Edward and his wife, were co-founders of the original Vale Day School. Edward was an inspector at Indiana General for 38 years and a union steward, and was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Opportunity Enterprises and a former member of the Moose Lodge # 1357. He also served as a Democratic Precinct Committeeman. Throughout his life he never met a stranger and he loved to joke and have fun. Funeral Services will be held, Friday, February 22, 2013 at 3 P.M. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Pastor Steven Driver officiating. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso. Visitation will be held 1 P.M. until 3 P.M. until time of services at the church. Memorial Donations may be made to the Valparaiso Bethesda Lutheran Home or Opportunity Enterprises.