James "Bob" Iles

James “Bob” Iles (The Candy Man), age 88, of Grants Pass, died August 11, 2017 at his home.

Bob was born August 18, 1928 in Ewing, Texas. From Texas, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1945. Upon arriving in Grants Pass in 1963, Bob joined the staff at the Daily Courier, retiring in 1994.

He was a proud member of Communications Workers of America, and the AFL-CIO. Bob was awarded a “Key to the City of Rogue River” after 12 years of service on the City Council and for being their Mayor.

He enjoyed walking the city of Grants Pass and handing out candy to anyone who looked like they ‘needed a smile.’ He was an avid reader of Louis L’amour.

Survivors include his daughter, Sharon Jeffries of Grants Pass; a grandson of North Bend; and four great-grandchildren – the true loves of his life. He was preceded in death by a son, Jim Iles in 2001 and his parents, John T. Iles MD and Alta Foster.

Bob suffered from dementia. Keeping a promise ‘never to allow him to go to a nursing home’, Sharon cared for him these last ten years until his passing.

Private services will be held. Hull & Hull Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.

As Bob was a proud American and Democrat, please direct any donations to the Democratic Nominating Committee or to any Democratic Senator for the 2018 Congressional election.