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Theodore Michael Siler, 70 of Indian River, passed away at home on November 22, 2023.
Born in Indian River at home on July 24, 1953, Ted was the son of Orval James and Hazel Oakadale (Wyantt) Siler. He grew up there and was a 1971 graduate of Inland Lakes High School. On June 16, 1973, Ted married Krista Mary Hawley in Onaway. They resided in Indian River where they had their sons Jason and Terry.
In his youth he worked as a mechanics helper. After high school, Ted took trade classes, becoming a certified mechanic for 25 years, working at Benson Transmission and Inland Transmission.
In 1980, Ted and Krista and boys moved to Wyoming for 2 ½ years, where Ted worked as a heavy equipment operator for Flint Engineering.
In October 1982, they moved back to Indian River. Ted continued working at Inland Transmission until he created Wilderness River’s Construction, LLC, as a licensed builder. He owned the business for over 20 years.
In his spare time, Ted enjoyed the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and ice fisherman. He also enjoyed camping, kayaking, snowmobiling, berry picking, and spending time with family and friends at picnics and bonfires. Baseball was another love, whether he was playing or watching his boys and grandson play. A very talented and creative builder, Ted enjoyed building his own home.
Surviving is Krista, his wife of 50 years; a son, Jason Siler of Indian River; a grandson, Jeremiah Siler of Indian River; a brother, James Siler of Russell Springs, KY; his mother-in-law, Mary Hawley of Afton; sisters-in-law, Joyce Siler of Marcellus, and Randy (Dave) Haines of Afton; a brother-in-law, Roger Hawley of Afton; several nieces and nephews; and a multitude of close friends and family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond Siler, Thomas (Winonna) Siler, and William (Katherine) Siler; son, Terry Siler; and father-in law, Jay (Mike) Hawley.
Ted’s wife, sons, and grandson meant the world to him. Everything he did evolved around them, and he loved them to the very depths of his soul.
A memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Indian River United Methodist Church where visitation will begin at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow immediately after the service. Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions in Ted’s memory to the charity of their choice.
Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.
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To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
850 N. Center Ave. P.O. Box 249, Gaylord, MI 49734
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

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