Robert "Bob" Stiles

Robert "Bob" Stiles, 90, of Whitefield, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025 after a period of declining health. A devoted husband, proud father, U.S. Army veteran, and hardworking entrepreneur, Bob lived a life defined by a spirit of optimism, generosity, service, and deep gratitude.
Born to John and Mable Cantle Stiles, Bob graduated from Whitefield High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1961. He returned home with a strong sense of discipline, purpose, and responsibility that shaped every chapter of his life. It is also said that he was a graduate of Stiles University- School of hard knocks.
Bob married Lois Vermette in 1957 and they enjoyed 68 years together. They had a fruitful marriage raising 5 children.
In 1963, through the encouragement of his sister Eleanor, Bob started Stiles Fuel with one oil truck and a lot of grit and determination.The full service business grew under his leadership, alongside his brother Fred to sell over 6 million gallons of oil and propane with the help of many talented and loyal employees.More than the numbers, Bob built a reputation for trust and dedication to his employees, customers and everyone that knew him. He developed five neighborhoods in the Whitefield area and enjoyed the process from start to finish.
Bob was always the person people turned to in times of need. He helped and encouraged countless friends and neighbors to buy homes, start businesses, get groceries, heat their homes, or simply navigate life with much sound advice.
His faith was central to his life. A lifelong member of Community Baptist Church, Bob often spoke about the grace of God and how lucky he felt. He was a proud 50+ year member of North Star Chapter No. 8 Masonic Lodge, a 40-year member of the Whitefield Fire Department, and served two terms as Selectman for the town of Whitefield.
Bob had a deep curiosity about the world, traveling far and wide-to the Galápagos Islands, Machu Picchu, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Russia, and the Panama Canal. Yet no matter how far he roamed, he always said the best place in the world was home. He had a very deep sense of community and recently celebrated his 90th birthday where friends gathered to celebrate with him.
He is predeceased by his parents, John and Mable Stiles as well as his siblings, Eleanor Lamparelli & Fred Stiles; sister in-law Mimi Stiles; nephew Dan Stiles; infant niece Julie Stiles and beloved son Robbie Stiles Jr.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Lois, and daughters Vicki (and husband Paul), Sunny, Penny (and husband Jim), and Bobbi. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Paige, Piper, Stephanie, Kristin, James, William, Jack, and Paul, and six great-grandchildren: Oliver, Hazel, Wyatt, Bo, Harley, and Charlotte. Bob will be lovingly remembered by many close nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to North Country Hospice at 536 Cottage Street Littleton, NH, whose care and compassion were a great comfort to Bob and his family during his final days.
A service will take place at the Community Baptist Church in Whitefield,New Hampshire on June 21st starting at 10am with a reception to follow at the Inn at Whitefield. All that knew him are welcome, just as Bob would have wanted.
His legacy will live on in the North Country.