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Giles Gerken was born in Colby, WI on December 20, 1928 to Frank J. Gerken and Anna Regal Gerken. The Gerkens were a farming family originally from the Dyersville, IA area. Giles was the youngest child and grew up in Wisconsin and Iowa. 

Giles first came to California to live with his older brother, Ray, when he was 17 and graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in Alameda, CA. After graduating, Giles enlisted in the US Army. He was first stationed in Fort Lee, VA where he ran the post bookstore. Later he was sent on a tour of duty to Japan where he worked in accounting for the post commissary and their satellite operations in Tokyo. Following his term of enlistment, Giles left the army as a Staff Sergeant and returned to Dyersville. 

In 1951, realizing that there were better career opportunities for him, Giles returned to California and began establishing himself in the state. After a series of short-term jobs, he was hired by Pacific Gas and Electric Company as a clerk. Giles spent many years as the head clerk for various PG&E construction crews in northern and central California, including in Amador County. 

In the early 1960’s, Giles purchased property outside of Sutter Creek and began building his home on weekends and vacations. Later, Giles bid for a permanent head clerk position with PG&E with the Hydro Division in Angels Camp. He worked there until his retirement over 30 years ago. In retirement, Giles enjoyed working around his rural property, reading, studying and listening to classical music. Giles favorite subjects were European history, archeology, cosmology and physics. 

Giles is survived by one sister, Mary Bildstein, of Monticello, IA and various nieces and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, by his older brothers Ray Gerken and Jim Gerken, and by his sister Rita Kruse. 

Giles was laid to rest in the Garden of Valor at Sunset View Cemetery in Jackson, CA. Contributions in Giles’ name may be made to American Cancer Society 1710 Webster St. Oakland, CA 94612.

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Giles Gerken Obituary | Altogether