Harry M. Stiles Jr.

Rensselaer Falls – Harry Stiles Jr., 93, passed away peacefully at the Mulberry Garden Assisted Living Center in Munroe Falls, Ohio where had resided for the last 10 months.

Harry was born July 14, 1924 at Ross’s Point near Plattsburgh, the son of the late Harry and Gladys (Clark) Stiles. Harry was a cattle salesman, laborer, and then started at GLF where he went to Canton for two years learning his serviceman trade.  He also went to Alfred University in Alfred, NY where he did his electrical training.  He worked for GLF for 12 years and continued when they merged with Agway and worked for another 10 years in Potsdam, ending in Heuvelton at age 55.  He then became manager of the Farm Store. After retiring from GLF, he worked as an auctioneer.

In 1944, he married the love of his life, Ethelyn Margaret Besio.  They honeymooned in Syracuse, New York and then they decided to settle down in their hometown of Rensselaer Falls, buying Noel Bennett’s house/farm where he farmed for 8 years with 2 horses and 35 cows. After eventually selling the farm, their second house was the old Baird house by the Rensselaer Falls School…they eventually bought their little house on King Street and lived there until 2017.

Harry was an avid bowler and golfer for 45 years, where both he and “Effie” enjoyed the teams they were a part of.  He also loved hunting, fishing, and was a stellar auctioneer.  Harry could also play five instruments even though he never could read a note of music.  He was extremely gifted in this area and also loved singing, which he did at many church events and special occasions. His favorite song was “Up on the Mountain.”

Left to mourn him, are his children:  son, Richard (wife Donna) of Canton, NY, daughter, Paula (James) of Munroe Falls, Ohio, and Robert of Springfield, Ohio.   Also, his dear friend, the Reverend Mel Vice, from Canada, his friend Lenora Blank, who had a special relationship as his friend.   Also, he leaves 10 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many, many friends, nieces and nephews. A special thank you to Emily (his little athlete, and her wonderful parents, Julie and Walt Rexford) who along with his brother Jimmy would follow Emily’s athletic events.  That was a comfort to him after Uncle Jimmy passed away to be able to continue being a part of their family.  There are not enough words to say what that family has meant to us, giving of their time to visit in Ohio to show Dad how much they loved him.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Ethelyn Margaret Besio Stiles, whom he loving called “Becky”, or “Effie”, three sisters, Shirley, Esther, and Jerry, and his brothers Everest, John, Jimmy, Keith, and Paul. He managed to be the last surviving of all his siblings.

Many thanks and blessings to the staff and resident assistants at Mulberry Gardens who were beyond wonderful and kind to a man they hardly knew. Their compassionate care and attention to every detail, made his stay a wonderful experience.  Also, to the Harbor Light Hospice Care, who although only having him for a few days, brought love, gentle care, and a peaceful passing to our Dad.  We will never forget these agencies for their love and kindness.  

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton, with a memorial at 7:00pm. There will be a graveside committal service in the spring at the Rensselaer Falls Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. 

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