Celebrating the life of
Admiral Owen W. Siler, USCG Retired
January 10, 1922 - July 17, 2007
Admiral Owen W. Siler, USCG, Retired
Admiral Owen W. Siler, USCG, Retired, age 85, died Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Admiral Siler was born on January 10, 1922 in Seattle, WA. He graduated from Santa Maria High School, Santa Maria, CA in 1938 and received an Associate Arts Degree from Santa Maria Junior College in 1940. Appointed a Cadet on July 19, 1940, he graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering and with a commission as Ensign on June 9, 1943, the usual four year curriculum having been shortened because of World War II
From the Academy he was ordered to combat duty in the Pacific taking part in the invasion of Bougainville in 1943 and the occupation of Northern Honshu, Japan, following the Japanese surrender. After the war he served in Alameda and Long Beach, CA before being assigned to the Naval Air Training Bases in Pensacola, FL and Corpus Christi, TX. He was next stationed for two years at the Coast Guard Air Detachment Barbers Point, HI before being assigned to Cost Guard Headquarter, Washington, DC as Aide to the Commandant, as well as Administrative Pilot. During the late 1950’s and early 1960’s he commanded the coast Guard Air Station at Corpus Christi and served as Chief, Search and Rescue Branch in Juneau, AK. From there he transferred to the Coast Guard Air Station, Miami, FL serving first as Executive Officer then as Commanding Officer. During this period, the Air Station was involved in 85 assistance cases and, with other Coast Guard units, helped deliver 8, 100 Cuban refugees to Key West.
After a year of student work at the National War College, from 1966 1967, he began his second tour of duty at Coast Guard Headquarters in the post of Chief, Administrative Management Division. In 1968 he was named Assistant Chief of Staff for Management and in 1969 assumed the post of Deputy Chief of Staff, meanwhile earning an M.S. degree in International Affairs from George Washington University.
By nomination of the President in 1971, the then Captain Siler was appointed to the rank of permanent Rear Admiral and was assigned Commander, Second Coast Guard District in St. Louis, MO. For his service during that tour of duty he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in 1972 for his successful efforts to avert a potential major disaster near Louisville, KY where a barge loaded with deadly chlorine had smashed into a dam. In May 1974 he received the Legion of Merit for his overall performance as Second District Commander.
In 1974, Rear Admiral Siler was appointed by President Richard Nixon to the post of Commandant of the US Coast Guard with the rank of full four-star Admiral.
On May 30, 1978 Admiral Owen W. Siler closed his thirty-five year Coast Guard career and retired. One of the characteristics of the Siler era was the Coast Guard’s rapid growth in responsibilities and the resultant shift in program emphasis. Overall, the Siler era was four years of change and expansion, of challenge and growth, marked by active accomplishment. Admiral Owen Wesley Siler left the Coast Guard a legacy of inspired leadership of which he was justifiably proud.
In 1987 Admiral Siler moved with his wife to The Landings on Skidaway Island. He was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, the Rotary Club of Savannah South, the Propeller Club, the Navy League, and the World Affairs Council.
Surviving are his wife, Betty W. Siler of Savannah; a son and daughter-in-law, Gregory John and Terri Siler of Columbia, MD; a daughter and son-in-law, Marsha Siler Antista and James V. Antista of Tallahassee, FL; grandchildren David Wesley Siler and wife Karen Siler, Wesley Howard Siler and wife Nessie Siler, Christopher Justin Antista and Lauren Elizabeth Antista; and great-grandchildren, Alexandra Siler and Nicholas Owen Siler.
Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 20, 2007 at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The family will receive friends at a reception in the Greene Meldrim house following the service.
Remembrances may be made to the Coast Guard Academy 47 Mohegan Ave. New London, CT 06320; the American Heart Association P.O. Box 15515 Savannah, GA 31416; or St. John’s Episcopal Church 1 West Macon St. Savannah, GA 31401.
My prayers and thoughts are with you, Betty and I'm sorry this is so late. I just received the obituary notice from a good friend and Coastie shipmate and was greatly saddened when I read it. I will always remember the good times when I was a crewmember on aircraft CG-01 and CG-02 when we would take you and Adm Siler to someplace in the US or around the world. I was always impressed with the way Adm Siler presented himself to those of us in the Coast Guard and to the public at large when he was our leader and I observed him in the more private moments away from the public eye onboard the aircraft. He was the same person and a man in whom I'm sure the Lord would say, as he did when he observed Nathanael, '...there is a man in whom there is no guile'. I was always impressed by the graciousness you both exhibited and was proud to be on the Admiral's crew at Airstation Washington when he was the Commandant. I was most proud when you both were at my OCS graduation at Yorktown when I received my commission and felt you were my own personal special guests. My classmates were partcularly shocked when you gave a big hug in the reception line after graduation and were quite envious for obvious reasons. The only new ensign to get a hug from the Commandant's wife - that was a very big deal! I am very thankful to have known Adm Siler and you. Both the Coast Guard and me are better for having had the priviledge of having you and him in our lives. God bless you richly and sustain you with His peace and fond memories of Adm Siler. Bryan F. Collver, LT, USCG Retired
- Bryan Collver, LT, USCG ret, Sioux Falls, SD
I worked for Si for a number of years when in retirement he was Chairman of the Association For Rescue at Sea. When I became president of AFRAS I was in awe - as a former Navy lieutenant someone with four stars was in a whole different world. He was out of this world - his professionalism, understanding and charm were a joy. He never 'pulled rank' on me but there was never any doubt who was in command. Our professional relationship soon became a warm personal relationship with Bette and Si.
- Dave Chomeau, Kirkwood, MO
It was my honor to be the Commandants pilot from 1972-1977. On rare occasions the pilots could bring their wives along.On a trip to USCG Day in Grand Haven Mich. My wife showed up late. As the pilot in command I was very embarrased and it was obvious. Mrs. Siler, Betty said to me 'Tom, when 'Si' was the Commandants pilot I got so embarrased one day that I locked myself in the bathroom. It didn't hurt 'Si's' career did it ?'. Having served with Admiral Siler and Betty at Miami Air Station they both have always had a very special place in my heart... Tom Osborne
- Thomas L. Osborne, Melbourne, FL
My sincere condolences to the Admirals family from an old Coastie, Third District, Public Information New York, 1964-67. We all proudly served, Semper Paradus
- Dorwin Douglass, Loudon, TN
I received a copy of Adm Siler's obituary in the mail today from my parents. In 1988, Adm Siler ventured down a dirt road in a remote GA farming community to present my USCGA appointment letter. With the exception of one old soldier my Grandfather, the attendees had not yet developed a good understanding of the word 'Commandant.' Nevertheless, Adm Siler was very gracious. He is still appreciated by the Swindell family, and we wish the very best to those he leaves behind.
- Guy Swindell, Greenville, SC
My deepest sympathies.
- Charles Harris, Capt, USCG, ret, Stafford, VA
Bette, It was a distinct honor to have been led by such a great man. One could not find a better role model. We will miss him greatly, and we offer the family our condolences and prayers. Jan and Art Wagner
- Jan and Art Wagner, Savannah, GA
I knew him as an outstanding gentleman and great leader from 1955 until I last saw him in 2005. I am proud to have his signature on my retirement certificate. He was also very instrumental in the the establishment of, and continued to support the Naval Aviation Museum.
- Paul S. Grimes, Jonesboro, GA
My deepest sympathy to the family of this remarkably accomplished, value-based individual, who I got to know through Rotary Savannah.
- Paul J. Pederson, Landrum, SC
Our condolences to the family. Adm Siler touched my career early when he counseled my wife at a gathering at AIRSTA Traverse City. She never forgot and always tells the story. Semper Paratus Admiral.
- CDR and Mrs. Edward M. Goodwin, Carmel, NY
Si' a special man with a deep sense of honor, duty and integrity. Will be sorely missed.
- Don James, , GA
Rest eternal grant unto Si and let light perpetual shine upon him.
- Sigrid & Philip Kirk, Savannah, GA
Bette, Please know that our prayers are with you and the children during this difficult time for you. We have such good memories of you both.
- Billyed and Ann Murphy, Melbourne Beach, FL
Love and deepest sympathy. Cy was a wonderful man. Ann and Tom.
- annandtom manchester, savannah, GA
Betty & family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 'Si' was a role model for many of us younger fellows, and as a couple, you two were great ambassadors for the Coast Guard both on active duty and in retirement. Thanks for the memories... Deese & Jeanne Thompson
- D.C. Thompson, Wilmington, NC
The angels have a new leader.
- Stan Smith, Gig Harbor, WA
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Bette. So sorry we will not be in town for the funeral.
- Bob and Betty Norman, Savannah, GA
We send our condolences to Betty and all the family. Si was, in all respects, a true gentleman--admired by all who knew him,and a role model for many who followed in his footsteps. God bless.
- Howard and Marlyn Thorsen, Alexandria, VA
ADM Siler was a wonderful man and will be missed. We enjoyed getting to know you during our tour in Savannah. Our condolences and best wishes. Tom & Beth
- CAPT Thomas P. Keane, USCG Ret, Gulf Breeze, FL
I was an honor to have known such a great leader. As a fellow officer, aviator and father, I can only hope to be as good a leader as ADM Siler. Our deepest sympathy to Mr. Siler, Greg, Marsha and their families. God bless from the Bartolotta's.
- CDR & Mrs. Nicholas A. Bartolotta, Savannah, GA
My condolences first. I am a stranger. But I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the life of Admiral Siler in today's paper. In fact it inspired me to come here. By the accounts in the obituary, it would seem that he was a real all-American hero. What a shame to have such a great man in our midst and not know about it. I am sure he was a great husband, dad and grandpa. I pray that God would comfort you during this sad time.
- Joel Paskauskas, Savannah, GA
It was a distinct pleasure to serve in the Coast Guard under ADM Siler's leadership.
- Benjamin J. Stoppe, CDR, USCG Ret., Fairfax, VA
Bette, We were so sorry to hear about Si. He was such a wonderful gentleman. Although no words of sympathy can ease the loss you and your family bear, still may you find some comfort in the thought that others care. May God bless you and yours.
- Jim & Verna Chapman, Savannah, GA
Condolences and prayers for you, Bette, and your family on the loss of your beloved Si. He was a wonderful neighbor and friend-always patient and kind. He gave a lot to this world and will be sorely missed. Blessings,
- Peggy Hale, Savannah, GA
It was a pleasure serving for such a wonderful man during my tour in the Coast Guard.
- john and carol wypick, fountain valley, CA
It is a distinct honor to have known and served with this great man. Our sympathies to Bette and the family.
- Capt and Mrs James Perry, Savannah, GA
My prayers and thoughts are with you, Betty and I'm sorry this is so late. I just received the obituary notice from a good friend and Coastie shipmate and was greatly saddened when I read it. I will always remember the good times when I was a crewmember on aircraft CG-01 and CG-02 when we would take you and Adm Siler to someplace in the US or around the world. I was always impressed with the way Adm Siler presented himself to those of us in the Coast Guard and to the public at large when he was our leader and I observed him in the more private moments away from the public eye onboard the aircraft. He was the same person and a man in whom I'm sure the Lord would say, as he did when he observed Nathanael, '...there is a man in whom there is no guile'. I was always impressed by the graciousness you both exhibited and was proud to be on the Admiral's crew at Airstation Washington when he was the Commandant. I was most proud when you both were at my OCS graduation at Yorktown when I received my commission and felt you were my own personal special guests. My classmates were partcularly shocked when you gave a big hug in the reception line after graduation and were quite envious for obvious reasons. The only new ensign to get a hug from the Commandant's wife - that was a very big deal! I am very thankful to have known Adm Siler and you. Both the Coast Guard and me are better for having had the priviledge of having you and him in our lives. God bless you richly and sustain you with His peace and fond memories of Adm Siler. Bryan F. Collver, LT, USCG Retired
- Bryan Collver, LT, USCG ret, Sioux Falls, SD
I worked for Si for a number of years when in retirement he was Chairman of the Association For Rescue at Sea. When I became president of AFRAS I was in awe - as a former Navy lieutenant someone with four stars was in a whole different world. He was out of this world - his professionalism, understanding and charm were a joy. He never 'pulled rank' on me but there was never any doubt who was in command. Our professional relationship soon became a warm personal relationship with Bette and Si.
- Dave Chomeau, Kirkwood, MO
It was my honor to be the Commandants pilot from 1972-1977. On rare occasions the pilots could bring their wives along.On a trip to USCG Day in Grand Haven Mich. My wife showed up late. As the pilot in command I was very embarrased and it was obvious. Mrs. Siler, Betty said to me 'Tom, when 'Si' was the Commandants pilot I got so embarrased one day that I locked myself in the bathroom. It didn't hurt 'Si's' career did it ?'. Having served with Admiral Siler and Betty at Miami Air Station they both have always had a very special place in my heart... Tom Osborne
- Thomas L. Osborne, Melbourne, FL
My sincere condolences to the Admirals family from an old Coastie, Third District, Public Information New York, 1964-67. We all proudly served, Semper Paradus
- Dorwin Douglass, Loudon, TN
I received a copy of Adm Siler's obituary in the mail today from my parents. In 1988, Adm Siler ventured down a dirt road in a remote GA farming community to present my USCGA appointment letter. With the exception of one old soldier my Grandfather, the attendees had not yet developed a good understanding of the word 'Commandant.' Nevertheless, Adm Siler was very gracious. He is still appreciated by the Swindell family, and we wish the very best to those he leaves behind.
- Guy Swindell, Greenville, SC
My deepest sympathies.
- Charles Harris, Capt, USCG, ret, Stafford, VA
Bette, It was a distinct honor to have been led by such a great man. One could not find a better role model. We will miss him greatly, and we offer the family our condolences and prayers. Jan and Art Wagner
- Jan and Art Wagner, Savannah, GA
I knew him as an outstanding gentleman and great leader from 1955 until I last saw him in 2005. I am proud to have his signature on my retirement certificate. He was also very instrumental in the the establishment of, and continued to support the Naval Aviation Museum.
- Paul S. Grimes, Jonesboro, GA
My deepest sympathy to the family of this remarkably accomplished, value-based individual, who I got to know through Rotary Savannah.
- Paul J. Pederson, Landrum, SC
Our condolences to the family. Adm Siler touched my career early when he counseled my wife at a gathering at AIRSTA Traverse City. She never forgot and always tells the story. Semper Paratus Admiral.
- CDR and Mrs. Edward M. Goodwin, Carmel, NY
Si' a special man with a deep sense of honor, duty and integrity. Will be sorely missed.
- Don James, , GA
Rest eternal grant unto Si and let light perpetual shine upon him.
- Sigrid & Philip Kirk, Savannah, GA
Bette, Please know that our prayers are with you and the children during this difficult time for you. We have such good memories of you both.
- Billyed and Ann Murphy, Melbourne Beach, FL
Love and deepest sympathy. Cy was a wonderful man. Ann and Tom.
- annandtom manchester, savannah, GA
Betty & family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. 'Si' was a role model for many of us younger fellows, and as a couple, you two were great ambassadors for the Coast Guard both on active duty and in retirement. Thanks for the memories... Deese & Jeanne Thompson
- D.C. Thompson, Wilmington, NC
The angels have a new leader.
- Stan Smith, Gig Harbor, WA
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Bette. So sorry we will not be in town for the funeral.
- Bob and Betty Norman, Savannah, GA
We send our condolences to Betty and all the family. Si was, in all respects, a true gentleman--admired by all who knew him,and a role model for many who followed in his footsteps. God bless.
- Howard and Marlyn Thorsen, Alexandria, VA
ADM Siler was a wonderful man and will be missed. We enjoyed getting to know you during our tour in Savannah. Our condolences and best wishes. Tom & Beth
- CAPT Thomas P. Keane, USCG Ret, Gulf Breeze, FL
I was an honor to have known such a great leader. As a fellow officer, aviator and father, I can only hope to be as good a leader as ADM Siler. Our deepest sympathy to Mr. Siler, Greg, Marsha and their families. God bless from the Bartolotta's.
- CDR & Mrs. Nicholas A. Bartolotta, Savannah, GA
My condolences first. I am a stranger. But I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the life of Admiral Siler in today's paper. In fact it inspired me to come here. By the accounts in the obituary, it would seem that he was a real all-American hero. What a shame to have such a great man in our midst and not know about it. I am sure he was a great husband, dad and grandpa. I pray that God would comfort you during this sad time.
- Joel Paskauskas, Savannah, GA
It was a distinct pleasure to serve in the Coast Guard under ADM Siler's leadership.
- Benjamin J. Stoppe, CDR, USCG Ret., Fairfax, VA
Bette, We were so sorry to hear about Si. He was such a wonderful gentleman. Although no words of sympathy can ease the loss you and your family bear, still may you find some comfort in the thought that others care. May God bless you and yours.
- Jim & Verna Chapman, Savannah, GA
Condolences and prayers for you, Bette, and your family on the loss of your beloved Si. He was a wonderful neighbor and friend-always patient and kind. He gave a lot to this world and will be sorely missed. Blessings,
- Peggy Hale, Savannah, GA
It was a pleasure serving for such a wonderful man during my tour in the Coast Guard.
- john and carol wypick, fountain valley, CA
It is a distinct honor to have known and served with this great man. Our sympathies to Bette and the family.
- Capt and Mrs James Perry, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
