Ken Stiles of Warren, NJ passed to his final reward on November 15th. He was 85. A lifelong resident of The Garden State, Ken was born in a log cabin less than 500 feet from his home of the past 15 years. He was the son of home builder Frank Stiles and his wife Mary (nee Gallucci). Ken was a 1952 graduate of North Plainfield High School and later that same year joined the US Navy and served his country with pride. Assigned to the USS Cadmus (AR-14), a naval repair vessel, Ken learned the machinist’s trade.
After completing his naval tour of duty, Ken began his work as a civilian machinist. He joined Davis-Standard and was among the pioneers in the transition from conventional to computer aided manufacturing. Following his retirement from Davis-Standard, he kept himself occupied driving for a tour bus company, always enjoying the adventure of a road trip. In the interest service to his community, Ken worked as a special police officer in S. Bound Brook, a part time position that brought him great pride.
Ken was an avid motorcycle enthusiast. A long-time member of the Dawn Patrol Motorcycle Club, he served in various capacities in the organization. As recently a Labor Day, 2019, he was sending hundreds of post cards to motorcycle enthusiasts in Central and Northern NJ for the club’s poker run. He treasured his membership in the club and the camaraderie that he shared with the other members.
A member of the Warren Seniors, Ken was always involved in their activities, planning and coordinating the periodic bus trips to Atlantic City. He was very congenial and well-liked by the membership.
Ken is survived by his brother, Frank, his children Doug, Denise, Virginia, Michele, Kenneth Jr. and daughter Kathleen. Ken had a total of 7 grandchildren including Dan, Kevin, Sarah, Jennifer, Ian, Victoria and Dillon.