Leslie Niles, age 72 passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at the New Glarus Home due to complications of Parkinson's disease.  He was born on October 15, 1952 the son of Robert and Jane (Orr) Niles.  Les grew up in Roberts, IL and graduated from Roberts Thawville High School in 1970.  He continued his education at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana graduating in 1974.  On June 5, 1976 Les was united in marriage to Patricia Dunphy in Sullivan, IL.  Les dedicated his life to agriculture, a passion that shaped both his career and personal pursuits.  With a deep love for the land, he found fulfillment in teaching others how to farm and working with a diverse range of agricultural companies.  His expertise and dedication led him to develop different seed lines-an achievement he hoped would inspire future generations of farmers.

Beyond his professional contributions, Leslie was known for his gentle nature, sincerity, and dry sense of humor.  He cherished time with his family and took great pride in their accomplishments.

Leslie is survived by his wife Pat Niles, son Edward (Rachel) Niles, daughter Danielle Lang, and three beloved grandchildren.  He is further survived by his mother Jane Niles, sister Marsha Hunter, and brother Virgil Niles.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Heather Niles, father Robert Niles, and brother William Joseph Niles.

Relatives and friends will gather to remember and celebrate Les's life from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 5th Quarter Bar & Grill, 161 Horizon Dr., #110, Verona, WI.

Memorials are suggested to Rock Steady Boxing, a non-contact boxing program designed for those fighting Parkinson's disease that Les enjoyed at Bakke Athletics in Madison.

The Zentner-Beal Funeral Home of New Glarus is assisting the family.