Richard Alan Stiles

Richard Alan Stiles: The Stiles family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of their cherished father, husband, and grandfather, Richard Alan Stiles. Born on August 31, 1947, in Ogdensburg, NY, Richard was the son of Harry Milton Stiles Jr. and Ethlyn "Effie" Margaret Besio-Stiles. He attended Canton High School, where he began his impressive wrestling career while also playing baseball. After graduating in 1965, Richard continued his education at Potsdam State University from 1965 to 1970, further excelling in wrestling and earning a Bachelor's degree in Education.

Following his graduation, Richard served in the Armed Forces, achieving the rank of SP4 and receiving a National Defense Service Medal for his proficiency with the M16. He was honorably discharged in 1973 and later returned to his hometown of Rensselaer Falls, NY, after a deployment in Germany. In 1976, he met Donna, the love of his life, and they married in the spring of 1978. Together, they raised three sons: Joel, Todd, and Aaron.

Richard briefly taught at Colton Pierpont School before transitioning into a career in social services and the probation department, where he discovered his passion for helping others. He furthered his education at St. Lawrence University to prepare for a career in the New York State Department of Corrections. Over the years, Richard worked in various facilities, including Malone, Ogdensburg, and Gouverneur, where he excelled in the counseling department and eventually became the Senior Counselor at Gouverneur Correctional Facility. After 37 years of dedicated public service, he retired in 2012.

Richard's greatest passion was his family. He loved spending time outdoors, enjoying activities such as hunting and fishing at the family hunting camp on Lake Ozonia Road. Known for his wonderful sense of humor, he brought joy to everyone he met, whether on the golf course, at the bowling alley, or the softball field. Richard also cherished watching his grandchildren participate in school sports, having coached his own children in little league for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Donna; his sons Todd and Aaron; his daughter in-law Tammy Stiles; his sister Paula Otis and her husband Jim; his younger brother Robert of Ohio; and his five adored grandchildren: Abigail, Logan, Liam, Jack, and Grayson. He is also remembered by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Ethylyn; his in-laws, William and Barbara Todd; his brother-in-law Scott; and his beloved son, Joel Harrison Stiles.

The Stiles family warmly invites all who wish to celebrate Richard's life to join them on Saturday, November 23rd, from 2-6 PM at AMVETS Post 282 on Route 11 in Potsdam. Please come and share your stories of a man who truly loved life and cherished his family and friends.

Memories and condolences may be shared online with the family by visiting www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Richard Alan Stiles are under the care of the O'Leary Funeral Service of Canton.