WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Sheilah Ida Sears, age 95, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 7, 2021 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. She was born in Plymouth, England on June 25, 1925 the daughter of David and Ida (Revell) Ryder, and the family later moved to Ontario, Canada. After graduation from high school, she served in the Royal Canadian Airforce. Following the death of her first husband, Donald P. Wilder, Sheilah was married to Harry C. Sears on July 14, 1973 in London, Ontario. They became permanent residents of the United States in 1976. Harry passed away on March 24, 2001.
Sheilah was a model in her younger days, and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and gardening. She was a talented artist using watercolors, pastels, and oils. Her passion for art inspired her to be a contributing member of the Carnegie Center for the Arts in Three Rivers, and supporter of the Glen Oaks Community College Art Department.
A loving mother and grandmother, Sheilah is mourned by a son, John Wilder of Aylmer, Ontario; sister, Sylvia (John) Lang; step-children, Paul (Rhonda) Sears and Elizabeth (Harry) Gruber; eight grandchildren, Leslie (Jason) Parker, Steven Toomer, Sara (Jason) Lunn, Shauna (Brett) Titchner, Christa (Brandon) Harrington, Jeffery (Kyle Culp) Wilder, Jessica (Travis Lyons) Wilder, and Hope (Adam) Krull; several great-grandchildren; and daughter in law, Sue Wilder. She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; three sons, Hugh, David, and Michael Wilder; a daughter, Dyana Higley; granddaughter, Carrie Wilder; and two brothers, Russell and Clifford Ryder.
In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted. A private family service will be held at 2 pm Friday, March 19, 2021 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon followed by interment in South Park Cemetery with B.J. Mallen officiating. A recording of the service will be posted on the funeral home website later in the day. It is suggested that memorial contributions be directed to the Glen Oaks Community College Arts Program. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
