FRANKLIN – Paul Francis Giles, 78, passed away June 27, 2012, with family by his side at home. Paul was born Aug. 8, 1933, in Franklin, to Neva Linscott Giles and Francis L. Giles.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Richard and Robert; and son, James. Paul is survived by his wife of 43 years, Vena “Teddy” Giles; sisters, Margaret “Peggy” Hunt and Norma F. Bragdon; children, Sharon, Lynn and husband, John, Michael and wife, Kenda, Bill, Paul Jr. and wife, Carol, Carol and fiance, Eric, and Eric and fiancee, Claire; 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; special niece, Rachel; and many more nieces and nephews.
Paul was an active member of Franklin Veterans Club, where he called bingo and enjoyed sharing stories and a beer with his many friends. He served in the U.S. Air Force, Naval Reserves and as a civilian construction worker during the Vietnam War. Paul served the town of Franklin in the positions of selectman, constable and tax assessor. The American flags that line Route 182 and side roads of Franklin are the result of his effort and love for his community. Paul was a member of American Legion, Fishers Island, N.Y., David Hooper Masonic Lodge, Anah Temple Shrine and Hancock County Shrine Club. Paul worked many years as a heavy equipment mechanic. His hobbies included flying, surveying, hunting, fishing and bee keeping. He was a jack-of-all-trades and was never too busy to help a neighbor with any chore. Paul and Teddy loved to travel and for 17 years spent several weeks every spring in Aruba where they met many lifelong friends.
A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. July 28 at Franklin Veterans Club. In lieu of flowers, donations to Franklin Veterans Club would be appreciated.