Mankato, Minnesota - I TAPPED out on Monday, January 26th, 2026. Born four days after Pearl Harbor, on December 11th, 1941, in Lexington, Kentucky to Thomas William and Frances Lee Giles. My childhood was spent on a tobacco farm in Scott County near Muddy Ford, Turkeyfoot and Sadieville. I attended Oxford school through 8th grade, then Scott County high school through sophomore year, transferring to Lafayette High in Lexington during my junior year. While living on the farm, I began learning to play the trumpet at age nine. As a member of the 4-H club, I won the Kentucky state championship in a Burly tobacco farming project at age 14. I attended the University of Louisville, receiving a Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music degrees. I was fortunate enough to perform in many professional music groups while there, including the Louisville Orchestra under Robert Whitney. It was there I met the love of my life, Ruth Hilton (fabulous flutist and master teacher). We moved to Mankato in 1965 where I began a 35-year career teaching music at then named Mankato State College. During my retirement years, I enjoyed the art of stained glass and was a volunteer performer of Taps for over 85 veteran memorial services. I am survived by beloved wife Ruth, daughter Margaret (caregiver and superb chef), Thomas (empathetic, kind and loving), my "other" daughter Kristin Palmquist (destined for sainthood) and most EXCELLENT grandchildren, Emma (the Corker) who always kept me on my toes with wit and out of the box humor, Jake (Future) who is a classical guitarist/composer of the highest rank, and Henry (Hendawg) who is an astounding classical pianist. Also survived by William Perry Giles (brother extraordinaire) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Cremation will occur where I might finally get warm! No public service will take place, at my request. My family may host a gathering down the road. In lieu of memorials, I ask that you please contact one or more influential teachers in your life and thank them for their guidance and inspiration. They deserve it. To all the wonderful musicians and students I have performed and collaborated with over the years, I say THANK YOU. I learned a lot from you all. Now, for my love of pastries... I'm off to meet my baker.