Kenny Siler

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Kenny Edward Siler, age 89, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026. A devoted family man, respected engineer, dedicated farmer, and tireless advocate for agriculture, Kenny lived a life marked by hard work, faith, and commitment to his community.

Born on December 15, 1936, Kenny was the son of Truman Charles Siler and Helen Alona (Graves) Outt. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Mark Siler; and his first wife, Margo (Irvine) Peterson.

He is survived by his brother, George Siler and wife Lila; his children, David Siler, Beth Siler Spangler and husband Paul, and Michele Siler Keys and husband Kevin. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Scott Siler, Dan Siler, Alex Spangler, Eric Spangler and wife Whitney, Ryan Keys, and Matthew Spangler; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Callie and Sloane Spangler.

Kenny graduated from Joplin High School in 1954 and pursued higher education with determination and excellence. He attended Pittsburgh State University before earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University.
During his early adult years, Kenny participated in ROTC and later served as a Lieutenant in the Army National Guard. While this chapter represented only a small part of his life, it reflected the sense of responsibility and service that he carried throughout the years.

Kenny enjoyed a successful professional career as a design engineer with Ford Motor Company, where his engineering expertise and innovative thinking earned the respect of colleagues throughout his career. He was also a lifetime member and former Michigan President of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, reflecting his dedication to advancing the manufacturing profession.

While engineering was his profession, farming was his passion. For more than 40 years, both during and after his career with Ford, Kenny devoted himself to farming. He found great fulfillment working the land, caring for his farm, and preserving the values of stewardship, perseverance, and self-reliance that define rural life. Those who knew him best recognized farming not simply as an occupation, but as the work he loved most.

Kenny was also a steadfast advocate for agriculture and the interests of farmers. As a member of the Michigan Farm Bureau, he worked tirelessly to promote policies that supported farming families and rural communities. He became a respected voice for agriculture, working to ensure that farmers' concerns were represented in public policy discussions. His involvement in local and state political efforts reflected his belief that farmers deserved strong representation and a seat at the table where decisions affecting rural communities were made.

A lifetime member of the Community of Christ, Kenny’s faith guided his life and service. He dedicated countless hours to volunteer work throughout Washtenaw County, Michigan, supporting the fairgrounds, community organizations, and local political initiatives. He was also a committed volunteer and member of the Michigan Republican Party, where he contributed his time and leadership to causes he believed would strengthen his community and state.

Kenny will be remembered for his intelligence, integrity, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to family, faith, agriculture, and community service. Whether designing automobiles, tending his fields, advocating for farmers, or volunteering in his community, he approached every endeavor with purpose and determination.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the land he cultivated, the communities he served, and the many lives he touched through his leadership, advocacy, and example.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.