Published in the July 19, 2019 edition.
NORTON — Robert M. Stiles, 91, of Norton, formerly of Harwich and Melrose, passed away on July 14, 2019.
Robert was born on February 1, 1928 in Melrose, son of the late Roy W. Stiles and Ann G. (Tighe) Stiles. He was raised in Melrose, and graduated from Melrose High School before enlisting in the United States Air Force. After dutifully serving his country during the Korean War he received an honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant. Bob was married to his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Hamilton, on June 4, 1951 and they lived in Leicester for several years before returning to their roots in Melrose with their family of three children.
Bob’s life was shaped during his youth while living through the Great Depression. Strong family values, a humble work ethic, and prideful self reliance were his hallmarks throughout his life. Following his discharge from the Air Force, Bob began a dedicated 30 year working career in customer service for the airlines. He started for Mohawk Airlines at the Worcester Airport and continued working through several acquisitions and mergers until the airline became known as US Air.
Bob and Marilyn resided in Melrose from 1973 until moving to Harwich on Cape Cod in 1990. Bob enjoyed their home until moving to Norton in 2014 to be closer to family.
Outside of work, Bob found great pride in caring for the yard that surrounded his home. With diligence and meticulous attention, Bob raked leaves, shoveled snow, and manicured the lawn. When the yard work was complete to his satisfaction, he enjoyed watching the Boston sports teams, and adopted Boston College as his college football team. He was also a skilled pool and ping pong competitor who routinely won the family pool tournament, and loved to recount his ping pong accomplishments from the service. With a love for music, Bob enjoyed sharing his love for country songs with anyone around him.
Bob will be deeply missed, but always remembered for his loyal nature and unwavering commitment to family.
Bob was the beloved husband of Marilyn J. (Hamilton) Stiles with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. Devoted father of Barry J. Stiles and his wife Amanda Paige of Houston, Texas, Deborah J. Roussel and her husband Paul of Cambridge, and Jonathan C. Stiles and his wife Karen of Mansfield. Cherished grandfather of Jessica Skrine, Robby Roussel, Hudson Stiles, Lennon Stiles, Ryan Stiles, and Alison Stiles. Loving great-grandfather of Melanie, Jordan, and Lauren.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather in honor of Bob’s life for a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., Melrose celebrated on Wednesday, July 17. Interment with military honors by the U.S. Air Force at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For directions or online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
