Leslie John Stiles

Leslie John Stiles, age 83, a consistent prayer warrior who was an example of Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” and witness of the love of his savior Jesus Christ. Looked into the eyes of the Lord for the first time early morning on Tuesday, August 20, 2019. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Diane Stiles; and two siblings.

He will be remembered by his children Mark Stiles, Sarah Joy Carpenter and Elizabeth (Jacob) Supri; his grandchildren Elsa and Colin Carpenter and Isabel and Isaac Supri; son-in-law, George Robert Carpenter; two siblings; special friend Gary (Sandy) Gardner; many nieces, and nephews.

Les loved his church, Grace Bible Church, and faithfully ministered to the children in AWANA for many years. Wherever Les went, he would greet each person warmly and with a passion and love for Jesus explain to anyone who would listen the meaning of the colors that wrapped around his walking stick. Les assigned a book of the Bible to each color, and this provided the tool to witness of Christ’s love. When asked, Les would tell you with joy that he was a redeemed Jew. He was excited about the fact that Jesus is the Messiah and that he would redeem all who would call on him.

Leslie adored his wife Diane, and it was as if a light went out when the Lord called her home. He was proud of each of his children and grandchildren. He always looked for the best in each of them. For Les, they were a point of pride, and he often bragged about them to friends. Les could not have been prouder than when his oldest son Mark told him that he was going to study for the ministry. Les beamed when he talked about Sarah, and she was his rock through many very difficult times. Elizabeth was his little girl who doted on him and made him feel very special. Each one of his grandchildren were very special to him.

Recently, Les took a trip to watch his oldest granddaughter Elsa, with pride graduate from National Guard boot camp. He loved his son-in-law’s and became a father to each. Les had his priorities set straight. The Lord Jesus Christ was; first, his wife and children were second, followed by his church and friends. Les ended each time with you in prayer and carried your needs before the Lord daily. Les left a tremendous impact on many during his life, and all who knew him will miss him.

A time to gather with the family to share memories, laughter, and love, will be held from 2-4 PM Sunday, August 25, 2019, at Cook Funeral Home (West building), 4235 Prairie SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A Funeral Service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 AM Monday, August 26, 2019, with visitation one hour prior, at Grace Bible Church, 3715 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Rev. Todd Kinde will be officiating. Interment will be at Georgetown Cemetery.

In honor of Leslie and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Potter’s House.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.