Richard F. Siler

Richard “Dick” Siler, peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the age of 73. 

Born in Defiance on July 22, 1951 to the late Cletus and Ethel (Bushong) Siler, Richard was a life-long farmer who spent his life cultivating not just the land, but also the values of honesty and perseverance. Farming was more than an occupation for him, it was a way of life. He spent his life working the land and finding fulfillment in the hard, honest work that farming demands. His hands built a home and life for his family, and his heart guided him with strength and love. 

In addition to his work on the farm, Richard also worked for many years at General Motors as a skilled millwright. Whether in the fields or on the factory floor, he approached every task with steady hands and a determined heart, making sure everything ran smoothly and was done right.  After retiring from GM, he put his mechanical skills to good use at Machinery Services, where he was known for his knack for fixing just about anything, all while continuing to farm full-time, doing what he loved most.

Richard was the proud father of three children, who learned from him not just through words, but through the way he lived. He showed them the meaning of hard work, honesty, and loyalty by living those values every day. His guidance and steady presence left a lasting impression, and the lessons he passed down will stay with them always. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan (Varner), and their three children: Joshua (Christine) Siler of Hilliard, OH, Angela Siler of Defiance, OH, and Joey (Ryan) Helmke of Defiance, OH and his cherished grandchildren: Noah, Joseph, and Kayla. He also leaves behind a loving extended family including nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends who will miss him deeply. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law Raymond Gilmore Varner, mother-in-law Betty (Breckler) Varner, and brothers Paul and Gary Siler, who now welcome him home. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025 from 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with a Vigil Service at 6:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1100 am at St. John Catholic Church in Defiance, with Fr. Jason D’Souza officiating. Richard will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorial contributions can be made to Auglaize Township Volunteer Fire Department. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.

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