Obituary of Merlin Ray Siler

Merle was born on April 13, 1936 in Conrad, Montana to Raleigh and Dena Kooistra Siler. He grew up in South Tacoma, the oldest of four brothers, and attended Lincoln High School. He told many happy stories about growing up in Lincoln Heights and the adventures he had with friends in the neighborhood He was a bit of a Renaissance man and enjoyed many occupations and activities. Highlights were his years at Boeing working on the Saturn 5 rocket assembly, lunar rover and the SST prototype. He also owned a Union 76 station at 4th SE and Auburn Way South and sold real estate. In retirement he reinvented himself driving 18-wheelers for Costco. He was a talented painter, creative designer, intuitive mechanic, decent golfer, great story teller, good puzzle solver, and loved a good joke, both telling and hearing one. He had a passion for cars and owned nearly 30 over his lifetime. He never failed to identify correctly any older car he saw, --in a movie or TV show, on the road, in a car show, on someone’s T-shirt. He was the Baby Whisperer of the family, loved babies, and was able to sooth the smallest, fussiest infants. He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Colson; their children James Siler, Debra Siler, Deanna Siler, Stephanie Condon (Tom), Jon Colson (Susan), Michael Siler (DAndra), and Todd Siler (Jessica); and many grand and great-grandchildren who all adored their Grandpa Merle. He is also survived by James Siler, Ron Siler (Joanne), and Michael Baker (Sally). A private family burial service was held Monday, the 28th at Mountain View Cemetery in Auburn. He lies in view of the beautiful Mount Rainier that he loved so much. His life will be celebrated on April 9th at 2:00 pm in the Rainier Room, above Oddfellas Restaurant in Auburn. We are not serving food but Merle was known for his sweet tooth so there will be a candy shop for all to enjoy. The family would like to thank MultiCare Home Health, Palliative and Hospice Services for their compassion, concern and care in the last few months, weeks and days of Merle’s life. They made it easier for Merle and all of us and allowed him to be at home to the end. If desired you may donate in his memory to the Auburn Food Bank or the Auburn Symphony Orchestra.