John C. Stiles ’48

John grew up in Summit, N.J., and graduated in 1950 with a degree in physics after spending time away from campus for Army service. His career as a research scientist was in aeronautics research and development. He made significant contributions to the design and development of aeronautical guidance systems and held 35 patents while on staff at Bendix, Litton, and other companies in California.

Virginia Taggart and John were married in 1949. They had five children: Janet, Susan, Judy, Bill, and Bob. The family lived in New Jersey and in Thousand Oaks, Calif. After Virginia’s death in 1992 and in retirement, John moved back east to Maryland. In addition to his lifelong interest in science, he built a custom home, was a glider pilot, traveled abroad, and played competitive bridge.

In 1996 he met Nancy Wilcox; they were devoted companions until her death in 2014. John died at home March 8, 2018, in Forest Hill, Md. He was 91. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.