Funeral services have been set for Kayo Silvernale of Burnsville, formerly of Currie who passed away at the age of 89 on Wednesday at his home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday morning at 11:00 at Church of the Risen Savior in Burnsville. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at White Funeral Home in Burnsville and one hour prior to the service at church on Thursday. Graveside services will be held on Friday morning at 11:30 AM at Calvary Cemetery in Currie, followed by lunch in the IHM church basement. The White Funeral Home in Burnsville is handling the arrangements.
Kayo J. Silvernale was born in Currie, Minnesota on March 6, 1933 to Walter and Mary Silvernale. His name was derived from a character in the Moon Mullins cartoon strip who slept in a dresser drawer as did Kayo when he was an infant. Kayo enjoyed explaining the derivation of his name to anyone who was curious enough to ask. His strong work ethic began in his youth with a paper route, helping out with chores for local farmers around Currie, as well as learning to drive truck and sort livestock. After Kayo’s graduation from Immaculate Heart of Mary High School in 1951, he enlisted for the U.S. Air Force. However, he was rejected due to his flat feet. Returning to Currie, Kayo went to work as the owner of the Standard Oil Station. He and Kathleen Donahue were married on June 3, 1953. Kayo operated the Standard station until 1970 at which time he purchased the “Silvernale Trucking” business from his father. In 1996, he sold the trucking business, but continued to operate “Wheel Service” which focused on vehicle alignment and tire services. He finally retired in 2003 and he and Kathleen took in as many of the Minnesota grandchildren’s sporting events, concerts, and school performances as they could. Kayo and Kathleen became well-recognized “super fans” among the parents at their grandchildren’s sporting events. They also became astute travelers, always eager to visit the children and grandchildren around the country and usually in warmer climates – Texas, Illinois, Georgia, Florida and Nevada! Throughout his life, Kayo had an unwavering commitment to faith, family and community. He was frequently sought after for his wisdom and advice on a variety of topics, and he had an insatiable curiosity to learn more. After 80 years living in Currie, Kayo and Kathleen moved to Burnsville in 2013 to be in close proximity to some of their children. They enjoyed nine wonderful years together in the Gramercy community. In March of 2022, Kayo was diagnosed with aggressive cancer, and peacefully passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2022 at Fairview Ridges Hospital at 89 years old. Kayo and Kathleen would have celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary in early June. The family has immense gratitude for the epic Easter celebration of 2022 with all nine children in attendance and all of their grandchildren and great grandchildren visiting with “Grandpa S.” either in person or virtually, just 10 days prior to his passing.
Preceded in death by son Stephen Paul, brothers-in-law, Craig Heieren and Richard (Bud) Mulder, and two infant brothers. Survived by his wife of 69 years, Kathleen; children: Michael (Kate), Mary Jo (Al) Ploeger, Barbara Sizer, Kathy McAdams, Thomas (Mindy), Daniel (Susan), Karen (Michael) Marben, Nancy Reynolds, and David (Teresa); 20 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; brother: Walter (Lois) Silvernale; sisters: Mary Ann Heieren, Kay (Mike) Dahlke, and Sally (Les) Green; also by other loving family and friends.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to one of Kayo’s favorite charities, Unbound Child Sponsorship. Other Memorials received by the family will support the Currie Fire Department and the IHM Calvary Cemetery Fund in Currie.
