Ronald M. Giles

"Ronnie"

Ronald Morris Giles passed away June 11, 2018 due to organ failure and suspected pancreatic cancer.  Ron was born December 14, 1946 in Francis, Utah to Morris Giles and Ida Jean Atkinson.

Ron graduated from Highland High school in 1965.  He worked for Grey's River Lumber Company in Wyoming for a year before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966.  Ron was assigned to the 101st and 187^th Airborne Divisions under the "train and retain" program during the Viet Nam era.

Ron began his career at L3 Technologies (then Sperry Univac) where he was employed for 46 years.  He held various analyst and management positions in Operations, I.T. and Finance, retiring in 2014.  He enjoyed playing in the golf, softball and bowling leagues.

Ron married Patti J. Besselievre in 1984 and together they had the love of his life, daughter Alyson.  Ron and Alyson shared a very special bond and loved doing everything together, especially NASCAR races and following #24.

Ron's entertaining sense of humor and charm were displayed everywhere he went.  He often made little gifts for his family and friends to help them through a difficult time or celebrate whatever was going on in their lives.  He could always be counted on for a word of encouragement, common sense, and helping those in need.  Sometimes you never knew what he would say next, and he kept his sense of humor to the end.

Ron was the ultimate "Utah Man" supporting the "U" as a Crimson Club member and season ticket holder for football, basketball and gymnastics for over 30 years.  He enjoyed traveling to away games and meets, especially bowl games and gymnastics championships.

Ron is survived by Patti and Alyson; his sister Susan Giles Flandro (Bill); niece Billi Sue Carpenter; nephew Cody Carpenter; three great-nephews; and many aunts and cousins on the Atkinson side.  

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, step-brother Stewart Giles and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at 12:03 PM (RST- Ronnie Standard Time) at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City. A celebration of his life will follow from 2:04 – 4:04 PM (RST) at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Utah attire is encouraged. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity in Ron's memory.