Obituary of James E. Niles

James E. Niles, D.O., F.A.O.C.O., died Saturday, October 10, 2015 in West Melbourne. Dr. Niles (Jim) was born in Lansing, MI, on May 27, 1926, the son of Wellington E. and Cassie Niles. Jim was a WWII Veteran, having served in Europe with the U.S. Army (Infantry). Following his military service, he completed his pre-medical studies at Michigan State University, as well as Senior ROTC. He graduated from MSU in 1949 as a Distinguished Military Graduate and was tendered a Regular Army Commission in addition to his bachelors degree in zoology. He earned his medical degree four years later from the Midwestern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Niles had a long and varied civilian medical career in both Michigan and Florida before returning to the military as a Colonel in the Medical Corps of the United States Air Force. After leaving the Air Force he continued his government service with the Department of Veterans Affairs as an Ophthalmologist until his retirement in December of 1993. Jim was a Life Member of his Local, State and National Osteopathic Medical Associations, as well as a Life Member and Diplomat of four Specialty colleges, (Famliy Practice, Preventive Medicine/Aerospace Medicine, and Ophthalmology). He was also a +óGé¼+ôFellow+óGé¼-¥ of the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology and a Life Member of Walter French Lodge #557 F&AM and a member of Oceanside Country Club for over 30 years. He is survived by his two sons, Dr. Stephen J. (Cindy) and Dr. David J. (Lisa); seven grandchildren, Jerilyn, Timothy, Daniel, Christopher, Cassie, Hunter, and Zachary. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Jean.Dr. Niles requested that there be no local Memorial service. His ashes will be interred at The Florida Veteran’s Cemetery in Bushnell, FL at a time to be announced.