James Monroe "Squire" Hiles

James Monroe “Squire” Hiles, Jr., 92, of Karns City, Perry Township, Armstrong County passed away peacefully Monday afternoon July 20, 2026 at Quality Life Services – Sugarcreek.

James was born in Perry Township, Armstrong County, on July 22, 1933.  He was the son of the late James M. Sr. and Nellie E. Barger Hiles.  He attended Fairview Township Karns City High School and was U.S. Army Veteran having served in the Korean War.  In his earlier years, Squire was a truck driver and had been employed by Bruin Drilling.  He retired from Indspec Chemical in Petrolia following more than 20 years of service. James was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge #278 Connoquenessing for more than 70 years.  He enjoyed farming, the company of his family, and was affectionately “Pappy” to his 13 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

Mr. Hiles was preceded in death by his wife Carol Ann Young Hiles who passed away on June 3, 2017.

He is survived by his children: Steve Hiles and his wife Kathy of Chicora, Cynthia Hillwig and her husband Rodger of Karns City, Kathy Rumbaugh and her husband Dave of Hilliards, Jeffrey Hiles and his wife Wanda of Karns City, Marcia Roessing and her husband J.T. of Parker as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter Linda Carol Hiles, two brothers, and five sisters.

Private funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Hile Funeral Home of Karns City.  Interment beside his wife took place at Bear Creek Cemetery in Petrolia.  To send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com.

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