Gary Joe Niles

Gary Joe Niles, 88, of Owatonna, died Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Benedictine Living Community in Owatonna, Minnesota.

He was born on August 29, 1937, in Smith Center, Kansas, the son of Dave and Helen (Lambrecht) Niles. He graduated from Blue Hill High School in 1956. After a few years of working, Gary enlisted in the United States Army Reserves for three years.

Gary was united in marriage to Shirley Anne Niles on August 8, 1959, and they were together for 36 years before Shirley's passing in December 1995. Over the years, Gary and his family moved to various states in the Midwest, working different jobs, from farming, drain tiling, gas station supervisor, and glass manufacturing in Owatonna for over 20 years.

Gary loved to spend time relaxing in front of the television, watching comedy shows and old westerns. He was an avid fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Minnesota Twins. He loved spending time with family, playing card games, and board games.

Gary is survived by his children, Roger (and Queenie) Niles of Owatonna, Constance Niles of Henderson, KY; 5 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, parents, Dave and Helen Niles, son Randy Niles, 1 grandson, 4 brothers, and 3 sisters.

Burial will take place in the Pherigo Cemetery in rural Unionville, Missouri.