Max Giles

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    Thomas Max Giles passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on July 8, 2026, at the age of 89.
    He was born on May 2, 1937, to Farrus M. and Margaret Giles in Hanna, Utah. He was the third of ten children and grew up learning the values of hard work, faith, family, and service that would guide him throughout his life.    
    Max met Carole Defa in grade school, and their friendship grew into a lifelong love. They were married on October 17, 1956, in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, love, and family. Max dearly loved Carole, and together they were blessed with two children, Sherry (Jeff) Loosle and Thomas (Shauna) Giles. Their family grew to include six grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
    Max had a deep love for farming and found real satisfaction in working the land. He cherished the simple rewards of a life built on hard work, and took pride in providing for those he loved.
    Raised around horses, Max developed a lifelong love for these remarkable animals. Horses were more than a hobby-they were a passion. He was a founder and lifetime member of the Dirty Dozen Riding Club, where he built lasting friendships while sharing his love of riding. He trained many horses over the years and relished the excitement of flat track and chariot racing. His patience, skill, and respect for horses were admired by all who knew him.
    Max was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he found deep fulfillment in serving the Lord and those around him. He served for ten years as a temple worker in the Vernal Utah Temple, a labor of love that reflected his devotion to sacred service. He and Carole later served together as full-time missionaries in the Palmyra New York Temple Mission, one of his most cherished experiences, where they shared their testimony of Jesus Christ and their love of serving others.
    In his later years, Max persevered through significant physical challenges, meeting them with the same quiet strength and determination that had always defined him.
    He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole Giles; his children, Sherry Loosle and Thomas (Shauna) Giles; his siblings, Beth, Sharon, and Lee; his six grandchildren; and his 23 great-grandchildren.
    He was preceded in death by his parents, Farrus M. and Margaret Giles; his siblings Francis, Joseph, Ed, Jerry, James, and Terry; his son-in-law, Jeff Loosle; and his great-granddaughter, Kingzlee.
    Max will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering faith, love of family, dedication to hard work, and lifelong passion for horses. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched through his example of kindness, service, and enduring faith.
    Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has provided love, care, and support during these past few years. Your compassion and kindness have been a great blessing, and we will always be grateful.
    Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:00 at the Tabiona Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.    A viewing will be held from 9:30 - 10:45 AM.
    Burial will be in the Tabiona Cemetery.