Donald H. Niles, of Fitchburg

FITCHBURG — Donald H. Niles, 78, of Fitchburg, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester. Don was born in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada, on March 5, 1946, the oldest son of the late Henry W. and Bernice (Anderson) Niles. He had resided in Fitchburg for over sixty years. Don worked as a contractor salesman at Maki Home Center in Lunenburg for 45 years before retiring. Prior to that, he worked at the former Webber Lumber Company. Donnie was a passionate hockey player and referee. He played for many years in several men’s leagues, including the Bud Light Old Knights. A 1965 graduate of Fitchburg High School, Donnie served as captain of the hockey team. He was also the only NIHOA (National Ice Hockey Officials Association) referee from the Fitchburg/Gardner area for many years, known for his common-sense approach and great feel for the game. Donnie was a member of the South Fitchburg Social Club and an avid fan of the Boston Bruins and New England Patriots. He enjoyed golfing at the Monoosnock Country Club, traveling to visit family, and playing hockey in Canada. Donnie also cherished yearly trips to Florida with his wife, Gail, and friends. Don is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gail P. (Farineau) Niles; two daughters, Lauri A. Dall’Oglio (Marcos) of Gardner and Robin M. Niles of Fitchburg; one brother, Gary Niles (Kathy) of Winchendon; two sisters, Charlene Wolfe (David) of North Carolina and Kimberly Jeffrey (Dan) of South Carolina; his sister-in-law, Katherine Niles of Georgia; three grandchildren, Karrysa Waaramaa, Jacquelynn Niles, and Madolyn Niles-Carlson; and two great-grandchildren, Harper Waaramaa and Lucien St. Jean. He is also survived by his in-laws, Robert Farineau, Paul Farineau (Jeanne), and Debra Fillebrown (Robert), all of Florida. Donnie leaves many nieces, nephews, and cousins in both the U.S. and Canada. Don was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Douglas Niles of Georgia; and his sister-in-law, Pauline (Polly) Farineau of Florida. Don's family will receive family and friends at calling hours from 4-7 PM Thursday, June 19, 2025 at the Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg. His funeral service will be held 10 AM Friday, June 20, in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. https://www.parkinson.org/how-to-help/more-ways-to-give

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Donald H. Niles, of Fitchburg

March 5, 1946 - January 10, 2025