Don Karl Giles, 71, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, surrounded by his immediate family. Born on the 5th of March, 1953, at Saint Francis Hospital in Santa Barbara. Don's life was defined by his unwavering devotion to family, friends, and the community, leaving behind a profound legacy of kindness, wisdom, and lasting connections.

Don was a gifted, brilliant, and rebellious soul. He finished high school early and drove his motorcycle through the San Marcos High School campus on a school day after picking up his diploma. His love for freedom and adventure continued when he joined the United States Air Force on April 1, 1971, during Vietnam. While stationed at Hahn Air Force Base in Germany, Don's first two children were born. Shortly after the birth of his second child, the family was relocated to Vandenberg Air Force Base. Don was never reluctant to pick up an instruction manual. He was a speed reader with unmatched comprehension. His commitment to understanding the complexities of computer networking was instrumental in the early 80's space program. Don astounded his peers and superiors when he successfully got all of the computers to communicate with each other, despite a lack of formal training. Don planted his roots in Lompoc following his military career, happy to be back in Santa Barbara County close to family. While living in Lompoc, Don worked for Northrop Grumman, UCSB Computer Programing Department, as the Youth Program Director for the Lompoc Bowling Alley, and spent time as a mechanic for various automotive shops including After 4 Tire and Toyota of Lompoc.  He also ran a 24/7 childcare business and coached youth basketball for many years. Later in life, he worked as an independent insurance appraisal photographer, something his youngest daughter enjoyed doing with him.

Don's love of music, particularly Pink Floyd, was a central part of who he was. He shared his passion for sound with everyone around him, even building two floor-to-ceiling speakers with his father that would fill the neighborhood with the warm tones of vinyl records. His enthusiasm for live music led him to countless concerts, where he reveled in the shared experience with his friends and family. He also loved Disney, Mickey Mouse, and sports, favoring the Lakers, Rams, and Dodgers.

Beyond his love for music, Don was deeply committed to children and the community. He ran the Happy House Daycare for many years, touching the lives of countless young people with his nurturing spirit. As president of the Lompoc Junior Chamber of Commerce, he played a pivotal role in organizing the first Lompoc Valley Children's Christmas Parade, a beloved event that brought joy to the entire community. Don's wisdom and kindness left an indelible mark on Lompoc, where he was well known for his dedication to others.

A lover of the outdoors, Don was drawn to Surf Beach, where he enjoyed watching sunsets and exploring the sea caves. He loved walking the railroad tracks and discovering hidden parts of the coast, sharing his findings with others. He was a silent, but successful advocate for keeping the upper beach parking area open to the public, ensuring that others could enjoy the natural beauty he cherished. When the Lompoc Amtrak Station opened, Don proudly purchased the first ticket ever sold.

Don's life was marked by a deep commitment to family and community, and his home was a gathering place for friends and loved ones. Full of laughter and love, it was the setting for many birthday parties, celebrations, and cherished moments.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Helen Kathleen Giles. He is survived by his first love, Malinda Whitemore, with whom he reunited eight years ago. Malinda lovingly cared for him throughout his courageous battle with cancer. He is also survived by his children Donn Giles, Susan Sugg (Michael), and Rachel Dawn Marie Giles; his brothers Jack Giles, Henry Russell Giles (Yaunning), William Kenneth Giles (Brandi Daniels), and Joseph Giles; his sisters Jeanene Hernandez (Anthony) and Rosanna Giles; his grandchildren Alexandra Peace, Grace Giles, Brandon Pearce, and Faith Giles; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends who became like family.

Don's passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of love, kindness, and community will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. His impact on the lives of others is immeasurable, and his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.