Leslie M. Silva

   Leslie Michelle Silva, 55, a devout Christian of Ogden, Kansas, returned to God on Tuesday (March 4, 2025) at St. Luke Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri after many years fighting illness.

   She was born in Farmington, New Mexico on March 8, 1969, to Harvey Dodson and Teresa “Teri” McCabe. On December 21, 2007 Leslie married the love of her life, Margarito Silva in Alma, Kansas. They first met as associates between 1982-1983, when Leslie was around 13 and was hanging out with his younger brothers at the house on Yuma. Their love story began in 2005 and blossomed when Leslie offered comfort and support upon the passing of Margarito’s brother, Adam. They have been inseparable since.

   Leslie was a devoted Christian who cherished the teachings of Jesus Christ and took solace in knowing that the Lord was always watching over her and her family. Gifted with an exceptionally nurturing heart, Leslie was passionate about caring for those around her as well as any animal that crossed her path. Leslie especially loved being a grandmother and spending time with her grandchildren. Through all her ailments, she always managed to put her family first. She was an outstanding cook and enjoyed feeding her loved ones. Her Cherry Christmas Cake was a family favorite during the holidays. Leslie left a huge impact on those around her and will be missed by many.

   Survivors include her husband, Margarito; her mother, Teresa “Terri” VanAuken (Jeff) of Pueblo West, CO; three children, Brandon Colson (Shy) of Wamego, Erin Mayes (Demi) of Hesston, KS and Alicia Stahl (Kaleb) of St. George, KS; eight grandchildren, Hunter Colson, Caydon Colson, Macy Colson, Hadley Colson, Stetson Colson, William Stahl, Mia Stahl and Aidyn Meier; a brother, Chad Kruse (Shan) of Brush Prairie, WA; a sister, Amber Roepke of Pueblo, CO; an Aunt, Christy Espinosa (Al) of Manhattan, KS; and many nieces and nephews.

   Leslie was preceded in death by her Grandmother, Loa Dee Greene; and Uncle, Marty McCabe, who she will be reunited with in Heaven.

   Memorial services will be held Friday morning (March 28, 2025) at 11:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Pastor Joyce Allen officiating.

   Visitation will be Friday morning from 10:00 until the time of services at 11:00 at the funeral home.

   Inurnment will be at a later date in the Sedalia Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions are suggested to Purple PAWS of Manhattan. Please make checks to Purple PAWS and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.