Merle Keith Giles, 72, of Tippy Hill Lane, Lucinda, passed away peacefully at his home on June 13, 2017 following a courageous, three-year long struggle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on November 29, 1944 in Huey, Toby Township, Clarion County, he was the son of the late Merle E. Giles and Olive Blanch “Pink” Dunkle. After high school, in 1964, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he became an electrician and attained the rank of Petty Officer. He was stationed in Norfolk, VA and in Malta, Italy during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in August, 1970. He was a member of the Clarion Masonic Lodge and the Zem-Zem Trikes.

On March 11, 1963, he married the former Shirley Avonille Carbaugh, who survives. Together they raised a family of three daughters. Keith was an avid fisherman, boater and enjoyed computers; fixing almost anything. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor.

After leaving the Navy, Keith worked for several companies, mainly as an electrician and maintenance worker. Among the local firms, Elliott Trucking in New Bethlehem, Blauser’s in Knox, George Wolf K.O.A. in Knox (he did all the wiring and electrical work at the campground), Webco in Oil City, Savage in Kennerdell, PennDOT, and Rinker’s Electric in Knox.

In addition to his wife, Shirley, Keith is survived by his three daughters, Brenda Toven and husband Paul of Brookville, Linda Buzard of Lucinda, and Tammy Buzard and husband Rob of Knox; his six grandchildren, Andrew Crissman, Michael Buzard, Derrick Buzard, Heather Francis (Chad), Brandon Buzard (Emily) and Hanna Toven; and his two great-grandchildren, Damon Buzard and Aubree Buzard.

He is also survived by siblings, brothers Richard Giles of New York, Kevin Dunkle of Pittsburgh, Tim Giles of Curllsville, and Mark Giles of Rimersburg; and sisters Carol VanKirk of Georgia, and Barbara Jones of Strattanville; along with an extended family of nieces and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Larry Giles; and his sister, Sharon Springfield.

Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home and Crematory in Clarion. As per Keith’s expressed wishes, there will be no public viewing or services. The family will hold a memorial gathering at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family on the funeral home website: www.goblefh.net.