From Ed's Memorial Service
In 1972, Ed Giles graduated from San Diego State and with his teaching credentials in hand was eager to begin his career in education. While searching for a teaching position, he worked at FedMart repairing brakes to make ends meet.
He interviewed for a job at Grossmont High School and left feeling confident that the position was his. However, as August approached and he still hadn't heard anything, he and Trisha decided it was time to follow up. When Trisha called the school, she was surprised to hear, “Oh, didn’t anyone tell you? That position has already been filled.”
Ironically, on that very same day, Trisha received a phone call from Mr. Dilly, the principal of Perris High School. He was looking for an industrial arts teacher and wanted to interview Ed that evening. Neither Ed nor Trisha had ever heard of Perris, but they jumped in the car and followed Mr. Dilly’s directions.
As they drove on for what felt like hours, they began to wonder whether someone was playing a joke on them. The principal's directions had been to "turn right at the flashing yellow light off the freeway, by the beer hall on the corner." Given that his name was Dilly, the instructions only made the situation seem even more suspicious.
Once they arrived, however, Ed met with Joe Beason, and the interview quickly turned into a great conversation. During the discussion, another topic came up: the school also needed a Junior Varsity baseball coach.
“Is that something you could do, or would want to do?” they asked.
As everyone who knew Ed can imagine, his answer was an enthusiastic yes.
Ed’s father had always taught him the importance of a firm handshake. At the end of the interview, Ed extended his hand and delivered exactly that. Although another candidate was being considered, the school later told him that his confident handshake was what set him apart and ultimately helped him land the job.
And just like that, a disappointing phone call became the beginning of a lifelong connection to Perris.
1977 would be Ed’s last year at Perris High School. During that last year he recommitted his life to Jesus and led a daily bible study before the start of school. That same year, I was a junior in high school and attended Temple Baptist Church in Perris. Our youth group was small, and leaders often didn't stay long. Because my brothers had gone to Perris High School, I was familiar with a teacher and coach there named Ed Giles. As a member of the student leadership team, I learned that our church was considering a new youth pastor. Not long after that, Ed and Trisha assumed leadership of the youth group. Eventually Ed would also become the principal of the new Christian school the church had established.
Under their guidance, not only did the youth group increase in numbers but more importantly we grew spiritually. Wednesday night Bible studies were always lively and unforgettable. Ed was especially popular with the boys because of his love for sports. No matter what activity we planned, he could usually be found on the floor wrestling with the guys and having a great time. The McCook brothers, in particular, loved trying to make Ed laugh. They would arrive several minutes late to Bible study dressed in wigs, trench coats, and other ridiculous disguises. Watching Ed struggle to keep a straight face was hilarious.
After Sunday evening services, we would pile into his Volaré station wagon and head to Bob's Big Boy, making several "Chinese fire drill" stops along the way. Those were some of the most memorable moments of our teenage years.
Summers brought "Teen Spree," a series of activities scheduled every night for a week. There were car rallies, game nights, basketball games, and countless other adventures. All these activities were designed to attract young people and create opportunities to share the message of Jesus, and this was where Ed truly shined. He had a gift for using object lessons to communicate important truths. One lesson involved having a girl stand on a chair with a boy standing beside the chair. Ed asked the boy if he could pull the girl off the chair. The boy easily pulled her off the chair. Then Ed instructed the girl to try pulling the boy up onto the chair with her, which she could not do. The lesson was clear: it is much easier for others to pull you down than for you to pull them up, which is why the company you keep matters so much.
Ed also liked to ask us questions to make us think. One of my favorites was, "If you date airline pilots, who are you going to end up marrying?" It was his humorous way of teaching important life lessons that stayed with us long after the conversation ended.
It was during these youth group years that Geoff was born. I became a babysitter for both Greg and Geoff, developing a relationship with them that I treasure to this day.
My connection with Ed continued after my graduation when I went to work at Temple Christian School. Over the years, I've lost count of the number of people who have described Ed as their "brother from another mother." He was certainly that for me. We shared a constant stream of good-natured teasing and friendship. One year I bought him a birthday card that read “ For your birthday I wanted to get you something that you couldn’t get for yourself” On the inside it read “ This card was on the top shelf” He laughed and laughed and over the years reminded me about it several times. Even after we both had left Temple, several of us continued getting together regularly.
Ed and Trisha remained an important part of my life through many significant moments. Ed officiated at my wedding and, not long afterward, officiated at my husband's funeral. I had decided to speak during the service, and as I walked to the podium, Ed leaned over and quietly said, "I'm going to stay right here in case you need me."
That simple statement captures who Ed was better than anything else I could say. He was always there when you needed him.
In all areas of his life his goal was to point people to Jesus. If he could lean out of heaven and talk to us today, I think he would say “what awaits you is far more valuable than anything you could possibly attain or receive during your life on this planet. Don’t quit running. Keep your focus on the prize – the crown that Christ Jesus Himself will award you in that day when you stand fully whole and perfectly blameless before Him. And finally Ed would ask “ if you don’t know Jesus what on earth are you waiting for?”
— Bernie Engblom · Colleague · Educator · 1977
Ed wore many hats in my life he was the boss who believed in me, the mentor who shaped my career, and the dear friend who stood by my side during life's biggest milestones. I am honored to celebrate Ed—a man who was all of those things to me.
As a boss, Ed didn't just manage; he coached. He took a chance on me when I was so young in my teaching career. When I interviewed for the Vice Principal position at the end of the interview they said you have never done administration and you don’t have a lot of High School experience so why should we hire you. I wanted to just crawl under the table and disappear but Ed was there and I just went for it and whatever I said got me the job. Ed always knew how to bring out my potential, and taught me professional lessons I still use today. He taught me to go to the core of the issue and look at the heart of the students. He knew that Jesus worked in hearts and not in school handbook rules. He always had exactly the right words of wisdom when I needed them most.
His care for me went far beyond the office. It was a great privilege to have him officiate the marriage between Tony and I. I still have the cord that he used in our ceremony. Like most people you hardly remember what the pastor said at your marriage but I do remember this cord and his explanation of strands woven together are stronger. It was such a special time to have Ed and Trisha at our wedding. Then years later my husband was building a huge pergola in our backyard and had a few questions. I suggested talking to Ed. We called him up and immediately he said come on over. They talked through the plans while Trisha made dinner for us. Spontaneous invite and they hosted us. Both Ed and Trisha truly have a servant’s heart and are the most loving and giving people I know.
And some of my absolute favorite memories of him were our high school youth trips to Honduras. Seeing him roll up his sleeves to serve at the school there showed the true heart of the man. He wasn't just telling our students how to live a servants life; he was showing them by example. He showed our students what Jesus would do in a practical hands on way. He would jump right in with the students getting himself covered in paint at times and joining in wherever he was needed. He lead by example to all of those around him.
Ed built a legacy of love, faith, and service. I am a better professional, a better wife, and a better person because he was in my life. I will carry his lessons with me forever. Thank you, Ed, for everything. We love you Ed, and we will miss your laughter, your wisdom and your faithful leadership every single day.
— Lisa Amorteguy · Colleague · Educator
I can still hear the way he would say my name, with such a smile in his voice. He had a way of making everyone feel cared for and his joy was infectious. I loved spending time in his hot tub or on his "golf course" and remember fondly visiting him when he was a principal. He will be missed greatly.
— Julianne Cochran · Family · Brother/Uncle
Ed was a great team player and gentleman. We had heard someone was at our school looking for a counselor to deliver a subpoena. However, it was almost Easter break and no one wanted to testify in court. So me, Ed, and 3 counselors hid from the server. Our secretary had warned us that we were being sought after because one of us would be able to deliver the subpoena to the counselor. We all decided to leave the counseling "trailer"-- TP was under construction and we worked in trailers for our offices. Well, like a gentleman, although we were all wearing suits and heels, Ed helped us all jump out of the trailer window. He was, of course, the last one to jump out the window. We were successful in our clandestine behavior and had a great time laughing 🤣.
— Susie Houle · Colleague · Educator · 1995
Pad squad at padres game vs giants 5-4 pads win! 8/2/26
— Trenton · Family · Friend · 2026
I went to the range with Papa for Thanksgiving golf. He got me this brand new used driver from the clubhouse and the first swing I broke the club head and it went farther than the ball. We both looked at each other and just ended up walking to hole 1.
— Ben Haar · Friend · Golfer · 2019
What do I believe? This is a simple question, yet it has a profound and powerful impact on a life.
Quite a journey this man’s life has been. He had wins and losses, success and failures, made big mistakes yet fixed so many wrongs, but the Man He continues to follow is the One who never fails.
My dad was loved by many because he loved many. And he was able to do this for 2 main reasons.
He met a woman when he was 18 years old who believed in him. She loved him and supported him and truly thought he was good. She genuinely thought he was funny and actually liked him. He was able to live free because of my mom’s love for him. Thankyou on his behalf and on all of our behalf. We would not be here celebrating how he lived if his life was not influenced by your love. This was the first big change.
The second was when he believed that Jesus truly loved him for who He created him to be. This was truly Life changing because he believed Jesus.
These are the two most influential men in my life. My dad and Jesus, the One who changed his life forever.
When I was a young boy of about 6 years old. I loved my dad and he loved the Father in whom he believed & gave his heart to, so I loved his Father. I remember singing this song as I rode in my dad’s old 1940s ford truck that barely rolled over the only bridge in Perris on the way to Dan’s feed and seed. “Father I adore you, lay my life before you. How I love you.” This song is a song of my heart because I knew the love of the Father through my dad.
Jesus said when you lose your life for Him you gain life. Roo found life in the love of the Father.
We have heard some great stories about his time on earth. But the last few years in themselves have been a journey. Prostate cancer. Life expectancy. Stents in the heart. Finish line / End point in sight. How to live?
What do I believe? It’s a bigger question with this perspective.
Kingdom life. Do I believe Jesus? Do I believe He is the King of kings Who truly is the One who has a kingdom that never ends?
If I do it changes the way I live. My dad is a son of the King of kings. He is an heir in the kingdom. He believes this. So we said to each other let’s grow in the kingdom that we will live in forever now.
We were given a gift of a last day in our time. I always thought of people’s last moments as being for them, but as Roo left I realized those moments were not at all for him, they were for us because what he is now experiencing is far greater in every way than anything we can experience in this world.
That last day was for us. He was a strong man and I believe he knew what was happening and he gave us all that his big heart could give that last beautiful day in the eastern Sierra in INYO national forest near Owens valley. He fished with us and talked with us about true life. He did his funny things. He was always fun, but he got funnier as the years went on.
The questions that can haunt: Start treatment… Go back to the cardiologist. Don’t go do hard things. Don’t go to the mountains. Dont go over 10,000 feet. Just stay home. Get to the doctor. These thoughts and hundreds more have flooded my mind.
My mind wants me to believe I am the king of my own kingdom.
When I accept the Father’s kingdom come and His will be done I am at peace. I understand the course of life and what true life is, just like my dad.
This last road was for him to walk, and this last story was for us to tell and for all of us to hear with ears to hear and eyes to see.
Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom. Jesus said the kingdom of God is like…
Jesus proclaimed to humanity that His kingdom was here for us to live in. Yet it is not of this world. His kingdom is within us, yet we are not His kingdom. His kingdom is like….
Words fail here. Because His kingdom is more than words can describe. That’s why Jesus didn’t say the kingdom is.
Maybe it’s like a big mountain lake. Most of us look at it and admire it. Some of us dip our toes in, some of us wade in it, some of us fish in it… These last years my dad dove in and lived.
We are left with memories of a life that was worth living, and the knowing that the life that continues is with the Father in a kingdom that never ends.
What do I believe?
I believe Roo’s true life continues and is unhindered by this earthly body. I don't believe this for my own comfort, because for my comfort I would have him here with me. I believe this because I believe my King who died to make us sons and daughters and heirs in His kingdom forever.
I believe for us, we have the opportunity before us to live kingdom life now. He has more for us all. It’s right here for us to accept and receive. It's not about the information, because words fail, It’s the relationship with the One who never fails.
So this is the last lesson I learned from my dad while he was still on earth:
Dive in, live in the love of the Father. Lose life to gain life. Know Love. Know life. Live eternal life in the kingdom now.
I love you Roo.
Susie and Steve
From Stevie (as Ed would say)
When I first met Eddie I knew I wanted to be his friend...outside of my 60 years of marriage and friendship to my wife Susie, I was and I am blessed to call Eddie my best friend. Eddie was the type of person that could have run a Fortune 500 company because he had the drive and personality to accomplish anything he set his mind to. Fortunately for all of us who loved him he chose to choose Tricia and Christ...and I think in that order at first. His love for Tricia was unmatched...as he often told me that she saved him first.. Ephesians 5:25 had Eddie's name written all over it.
Over the years we had so many adventures together...the memories have all come flooding out these past 3 weeks and it's almost more than I can bare to think about them...fishing together with the boys and our girls, vacations, dancing in the Caribbean, sailing trips, baseball games, landscaping, and sometimes just hanging out...one of the things I loved most about Eddie was he was a real guy constrained by the Lord...but always very real.
Our families grew close together over the years, and Eddie, next to Susie, will always be my best friend.
I love you and will miss your voice and our times together. See you soon and put in a good word for all of us down here with the Big Guy.
Your buddy Steve
P.S. Tricia, I'm so sorry Susie and I will not be able to make it to the Celebration of Life...my last memories of you and Ed are all I need to move on past this terrible loss. Seeing you without Eddie by your side is more than I can bear. We love you and your family more than you can possibly know. Susie and I will make a trip to see you and the boys this winter. Have a blessed time this weekend.
Your friends in Christ, Steve & Susie
— Steve and Susie · Friend · Brother/Uncle · 1994
I love you papa, this is a test
— Trenton Giles · Family · Papa · 2004
So so many adventures — we can not see each other for a long while and when we get together with Ed and Tricia it's like we were never apart. Love them both and the family so much. First time 1976 (or so!), last time Shayla's 50th birthday last year in Laguna — will be forever grateful for that time. ❤️
— Susie and Steve Cavanaugh · Best buddies for 50 years
To the family of Ed Giles,
I want to let you know how saddened I am to hear about the passing of Ed Giles. He was an incredible man and will be badly missed.
I first met Ed in 1993 when he and Martha Avery interviewed me for a position as an English teacher at Christian High School. I had no previous experience but had a desire to teach. Ed was very professional in our interview — I was very nervous — and he decided to take a chance on me, hiring me to teach yearbook, newspaper, and English. I taught at CHS for 17 years and have always been most grateful for Ed's trust in me to hire me in the first place.
There are so many "Ed" stories, I could not begin to tell all of them. One of my favorites is when the Chargers ended up in the Super Bowl in 1995. Ed had lightning bolts attached to his VW, and he would drive around at lunch, head out the window, hooting and hollering. He was such a fan that he ended up flying to the Super Bowl that year to watch the team lose to the 49ers. The students loved it.
Another favorite memory were the popsicle stick jokes he would tell at chapel. They were corny and awful, but they did get a reaction out of the students, even as they groaned. He had a fun sense of humor and everyone gravitated toward him.
Each August the CHS staff would go to Carlsbad for a teacher retreat. It was a special treat to spend 2 days with everyone as we prepared ourselves for the next school year. One year I remember Ed hired a comedian to come entertain us at night. Who does that? Ed did! And he laughed all the way through the performance.
Still another story is when the computers in the newspaper/yearbook room kept breaking down. It was old technology and the school system did not have an IT department in 1995. I ended up buying a Macintosh computer to be the server to a bunch of old Apple 2 Es. I submitted the bill through the proper channels and then got called into Ed's office a few days later. He was pretty serious. "Eric, what is this? You didn't ask for permission and you spent $2,000. What is going on?"
I replied, "Ed, if I had asked for this computer, would I have gotten permission?" He looked at me. "No, probably not," he replied. "Ahh, well, the students in these classes are completely frustrated that their work is down the tube when the computers freeze every 20 minutes. I had to do something. If I have to, I'll use my own money to pay this bill, but I think I have enough money in both of my yearbook and newspaper budgets to cover it, so I decided to buy it first because I needed this now."
He smiled. He knew that my intention was pure and was intended to better the department as well as the students. He finally said, "Hey, I understand. Next time just tell me you are spending this much. But I'll take care of this." Classy guy.
Ed was always about the students first and teachers were a close second. I was saddened when a district superintendent double crossed him in the late 1990s and he ended up leaving our school the next year for a public school opportunity. I didn't blame him because he was treated so poorly by our leaders. It was our loss for sure.
Please know how valued Ed was to me and so many others. May God bless you during this time.
Ed started out as my kids' principal in 1979 at Temple Baptist PreSchool in Perris, CA. I subbed a few times too. We had a good income so I was happy to donate to the school as well. Later in 1987 we all moved to the El Cajon area and started at CJHS/CHS at the same time. I worked at the Junior High and the next year worked for Ed at the high school too.
A couple years later, he was principal over the Jr High too at the High School campus. We had great years together and he blessed us with great leadership and some great fun too. I was so happy my girls could attend school there too. Teachers, kids and administrators were a big happy family. He was a spiritual leader and encouraging as well as coaching us as teachers.
One year at the end of a trying year with some trying students (about 1997 or 8), I went into the office to whine and moan about the "terrible" kids I had had to teach that year. I thought he might suggest I could have relief in some way if this happened again. But no, he said, "Marty, if you can't make every student love you next year, don't plan on coming back." Well, after the shock wore off, I said, "EVERY student?" He said, "Yes." I walked out. I prayed about it and asked God for help to do just that. That next year was the best year I ever had. Ed knew God could change my heart. And He did.
We had lots of funny stories too. And sweet times of fellowship at 7:00 a.m. at staff meetings and at Carlsbad beach to kick off the new school year. I am so grateful for Ed's leadership and friendship for so many years. Last I saw him he came to a goodbye party for me before I moved to NC two years ago. Not many friends in life are friends for almost 50 years.
Can't wait for our great reunion in heaven one day!!
— Marty Price · Friend, and worked for Ed for years · Educator
From the very first moment I met Ed, it felt like we were engaged in one continuous conversation, only interrupted by our golf shots and then resumed once we were back in the cart. There was no need to explain anything when we picked up where we left off; it just flowed naturally. Anything and everything would trigger a memory for him, leading to a special moment from his past.
Ed had a remarkable knack for asking questions and genuinely listening to my stories, no matter the topic. He never rushed to steer the conversation toward his own interests; instead, he was fully present, sharing thoughts about life — both the good and the challenging — and always grounding our discussions in a God-centered perspective. It was this authenticity that made our time together so meaningful.
Golf is an interesting game, offering plenty of time between shots, and how we choose to fill that time reveals a little bit about our humanity. I understand that there are folks who take their golf very seriously, where every round revolves solely around the game itself. But that's not how it was with Ed. In fact, it would have been impossible to approach a round that way with him. His infectious spirit and love for connection ensured that every moment on the course was filled with laughter, stories, and camaraderie, making the experience about so much more than just the game.
Thursday mornings held a special place in my heart, and it wasn't just because I was playing the greatest game ever — golf. Ed Giles would sit next to me in the cart, and from the very first moment of our time together, a new story would unfold. For five hours, we would dive into one topic after another, pausing only for the occasional swing at the ball. Ed had a true passion for the game and was determined to improve his skills.
One of my favorite tales was about his time working for a landscaper in Temecula, where they were busy building a new golf course for none other than Jack Nicklaus. Ed recalled the moment when Jack arrived in a helicopter, descending from the sky to grace the first tee. He then proceeded to hit the opening drive of the course, and in that instant, Ed was completely captivated by the sport. That day marked the beginning of his lifelong love for golf.
A Tribute to Friendship (Rooster)
Can a card game be dedicated to a cherished friend? I'm not entirely sure, but I want to share a bit about my playing companion over the past few years. Ed Giles transformed a simple round of golf into so much more. Every hole was accompanied by a story — some humorous, others filled with poignant memories — but they were always captivating and often included family in the narrative. He had a remarkable ability to truly listen, to ask questions, and to show genuine curiosity about others.
Sadly, Ed passed away recently, and our Thursday games will never feel the same without him. He embodied the spirit of feelgoodgolf, where the game itself took a backseat to the bonds of friendship. My heart is heavy with the loss, but I take comfort in knowing that one day, when we reunite, Ed Giles will have his clubs ready, and the stories will come pouring out once more.
I've dedicated one of the cards in the game (feelgoodgolf) to Ed (Rooster).
As I reflect on our days spent on the course and the many conversations we shared, I'm trying to capture as many memories as I can. A common thread emerges — one of generosity and kindness. Ed was always there to lend a hand, whether it was fixing someone's car, loaning tools to help a friend in need, or offering sage advice to a young couple about navigating the early stages of marriage and the importance of accepting one another as they are.
He filled in as a substitute teacher at a new school, organized a wiffle ball tournament for a bunch of kids, and made trips to Northern California to spend time with his grandchildren. Ed cherished his family, often going on hikes with them and discussing his grandson's football aspirations. He loved introducing his grandkids to the game of golf, teaching them the ropes along the way.
He also had a big heart for his community, talking to people about finding faith in Christ, organizing a green jacket tournament for kids, volunteering at the San Diego Open, and even helping the cart girl find a job at a local school. It feels as though each round of golf we played was accompanied by these acts of kindness and connection.
Yes, we enjoyed our fair share of golf and lively discussions about sports, but playing with Ed was truly about feelgoodgolf. I knew it, and I cherished every moment we shared on the course.
— Jeffrey Lee Reynolds · Friend and Thursday golf partner at Carlton Oaks · Golfer
I taught 3 of his grandkids — Greg and Tiffany's children. I also taught Marcus and Weston. Ed was at everything. Front and center at all the grandparent days, Christmas programs. You name it and he was there as the proudest grandpa. You could tell he just loved being there and enjoying his grandkids always. I hope someday I'm blessed to be an all in grandparent like him. I know when he was first diagnosed with prostate cancer, Tiffany was so upset. She loved him just like a dad. Not everyone gets to have such a special relationship like Tiffany has with her in laws. Great man and family. He left a great legacy behind.
— Casey Sitze · Taught his grandkids · Papa
Somehow, every time when we went out with friends and family I forgot my wallet. I try to remember if I did it on purpose or not. I'm sure Ed thought I did it on purpose. He was truly a Christian brother. He wasn't afraid of helping me grow in Christ. Especially if I was in need of wisdom and direction. Tricia and Ed made a wonderful team. Along with my parents they showed me how a husband and wife work together through love. Even when they don't always agree. I'm glad I got to talk to him a few months ago. I was hoping to see him in the near future. He made an incredible impact on my life. In God's wisdom he hired me and started my life as a music teacher. I retired after teaching 39 years. God bless his legacy and his beautiful family.
— Jonathan · His principal first, then his friend · Educator · 1984
I was on the annual family boys backpacking trip and we had our prayer circle and everyone talking about what we could pray about and I had brought up how my stepmom was diagnosed with breast cancer and I talked about how hard it was on her and how much she was fighting and during that time I was doing a lot to support her and the family and later on in the trip Roo and I had a heart to heart conversation about life and battles with health and he didn't know it at the time but it meant so much to me to have a man to man conversation about what it's like seeing a family member go through something like that.
— Brennan Sanders · Family friend · Backpacker · 2023
I always looked up to Roo as a man who chased God's heart consistently. He was a servant who would open his home to all and want the best for others. I have great memories of Roo and Tricia opening up their home for a Band of Brothers to come together. He was a man of integrity and one of the most genuine that I have ever met. I absolutely loved the way that he would listen and lead young people whenever he was helping Greg or Ffoeg with coaching. To me, he was the epitome of being a man's man because he let Jesus lead him and he had Jesus lead through him to others.
— Darnell Uhland · Family friend
I wish I had more stories actually, I mostly remember how kind, and easy he was to talk to and be around! I remember Mr Giles always smiling and having a special relationship with the guys of the class of '96, his son Geoff was a part of our class and you could tell Mr Giles had a special bond with these guys.
I remember at graduation the guys had collected green army men, and decided to hand them to Mr Giles as they shook his hand while receiving their diplomas. Mr Giles tried desperately to keep a straight face while one by one his pockets filled with these little green figures. Soon his pockets were stuffed full, and Mr Giles had no choice but to take the overflowing amount of green army men and make a pile on the table in exchange for the next diploma. He took that innocent prank and rolled with it, he never wavered in his demeanor on stage, just giggled along with all of his now former students! He was simply the best principal and will be missed! God Bless!!!
— Bethany (Buser) Gaut · CHS student, 1993–96 · Educator · 1996
We were grandfather-in-law's to the Greg and Tiffany Giles family for many years. It all started when I walked into Ed Giles's office at Christian High School to introduce my 14-year-old daughter Tiffany Stutz, and Ed the principal, greeted her warmly. Little did I know that Greg was out in the lobby watching the girls come in for interviews and had his eye on Tiffany from day one. He was a great principal and a great supporter of Tiffany throughout the four years and the highlights of course were two State championship appearances for the little Christian High School. The rest is history, but since the time of the grandkids Marissa, Trenton, and Morgan, we have attended sporting events too numerous to count. He was a great golfer and a great athletic supporter. I shouted at the refs and barked instructions to Tiffany on the floor from the grandstand. I never got kicked out of the gym, however, but I came close. He was able to surpass me in that category when he was going over the top for Marissa at Grossmont High School. I felt kind of relieved that another member of the family took basketball so intently. Tricia at all the events as great supporters for Marissa, Trenton, Marcus, and Morgan. There's a few pictures of Morgan's graduation and Morgan playing basketball at Helix. Needless to say, he was a great encourager of young people, especially his grandchildren, whom I shared with him.
"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and very dear."
— Frederick Stutz · Grandfather-in-law to Greg & Tiffany's family · Papa
The photo I attached is the only one I have with Ed. It was taken at Carlton Oaks when we were there for Comedy night. We ran into Ed, he came over and took my husband's seat while he was gone... and then stayed to watch the show with us. I never, ever take selfies, but we decided to do it and then send it to Dr G. It was taken 3 months before he left us. I will always remember him just like that... with a smile, some jokes or funny stories. Sometimes he would come by the office and we would share a coffee... and just talk about life, the kids etc. He was so in love with his family, and his wife and so proud of every single one. Never a harsh word, always upbeat... and always a joy, truly, to be around. The kind of person that made your day a little better just by seeing him. I miss him. The world has truly lost one of the Great Ones... but Heaven has gained a very special soul. God bless you Roo.
— Pamela Anderson · Worked with Dr. Giles for 11 years · 2026
Roo was the fishing guru and master chef on backpack trips. I first met him when he was the Principal at Christian High but quickly found him to be a mentor during our times in the mountains. He always had a tip for catching trout. Always packed the espresso maker and was quick with an offer to share. He was uniquely stubborn, competitive, caring, serious, and lighthearted. He was a man to be admired and emulated. I'll never forget how mad he got at us for "getting all doped up" on our Unisom. He touched so many lives and will be deeply missed.
— Kevin Epps · Backpacking friend · Backpacker · 2000
I worked at Carlton Oaks Golf Course with Ed for parts of around 3 years. We started a friendship and began golfing together. Myself and my friends (all aged 24) would specifically invite Ed to play with us because he was such a fun person to be around. He would always send me a text after our rounds thanking me for including him and how special he felt to be with the young guys — but we enjoyed it more than he did. He will be greatly missed.
— Connor Chase · Golf friend · Golfer · 2023
Flying out from Memphis and visiting Eddie and Tricia at their home.
— Valerie Kamber · His sister-in-law · Brother/Uncle · 2023
Going to Spring Training Baseball with Eddie, Alan and Timmy.
— Daniel Giles · His brother · Brother/Uncle · 2025
Family Reunion.
— Daniel Giles · His brother · Brother/Uncle · 2009
Going to our last Padres game. We attended numerous Padres games together over the last 57 years.
— Daniel Giles · His brother · Brother/Uncle · 2023
Today I want to Honor my brother Eddie.
He may be known to others as Roo, Mr. Giles, Uncle Eddie, Grandpa or as I always called him Eddie Boy! Whenever I would talk to him he would call me Danny Boy. I am saddened and devastated by his passing. Eddie Boy was a brother, a friend and someone who I could ALWAYS turn to for advice, counsel and guidance. Our favorite topics were the Chargers, Padres, Playing Softball, Family, and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I miss him immensely and my heart is hurting. He will be deeply missed in this life. But I do believe he's in a better place today. May he rest in peace.
Love you Eddie Boy ⚾️
— Daniel Giles · His brother · Brother/Uncle
