Ronald L. Niles

Ronald Niles, 82, of Berlin, CT passed away on 6/16/2021 with his loving family by his side.  Ron was born on 4/11/1939 to the late Leslie and Muriel Niles in Presque Isle, ME, where he began his passion for the outdoors.  Ron moved to Berlin, CT as a youngster where he eventually met his wife of 58 years, Sandra.

He was a veteran of the US Marine Corps where he served his country as an expert rifleman.  He owned and operated CT Vending Corporation for over 30 years with two of his lifelong friends.  He was an active member at the Mattabassett Rifle & Pistol club, and of the NRA.  His interest in tennis brought him many years of competitive enjoyment playing singles, and eventually Sandy joined him as his doubles partner.  His support of tennis led him to his sponsorship of the Tennis World Team in the early 1980’s.  Ron loved his time raising hunting dogs and took pride in his hikes in the field with his hunting buddies and dogs.  His love of the outdoors provided Ron with tremendous happiness.  Sharing his time with good friends and family in the woods and on the water provided great enjoyment with stories that will live on through generations.  He enjoyed the special moments spent hiking, fishing, adventures to the swimming hole and laughing with his grandchildren at the house he built in Vermont.  Camping, fishing and hunting trips to Alaska, Upstate New York, Vermont, the Midwest and throughout Connecticut is where Ron fondly impacted so many close friends and created lasting memories for his family.

Ron was a role model who provided guidance and compassion for his children and grandchildren.  He leaves behind his wife Sandy, his two daughters, Wendy Russell predeceased husband Rick of Old Lyme, Dana Tavarozzi and husband Michael of Berlin.  He also leaves behind his brothers Bobby, who resides in South Carolina and Richard and wife Joan of Berlin.  His pride and joy were his grandchildren, Matt and Leah Russell, Taylor Tavarozzi, Madison Stufano and husband Josh.  Ron was predeceased by his son-in-law, Rick Russell.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Hospital for Special Care.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday June 22 from 3 – 5:30 PM with service at 5:30 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin/Porters, 111 Chamberlain Hwy, Berlin. Military honors will conclude the services at the funeral home followed immediately afterwards with a gathering at the Courtyard Marriott at 4 Sebethe Drive, Cromwell. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald L. Niles, please visit our floral store.