AUBURN — Herbert Orey Wiles, 87, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Nov. 11.

Born on Nov. 21, 1923, in Norway, he was predeceased by his wife, Jeannett Poisson of Livermore Falls.

Friends and family were very important to Herb. He enjoyed being a seasonal camper in Leeds and had many friends there. He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed boating, water skiing and was a ski instructor in his earlier years. Herb was just 10 days shy of his 88th birthday, and had celebrated his birthday early along with his daughter and granddaughter, who also had birthdays in November.

Herb was a radio operator in the merchant marine during World War II, and served on seagoing tugs as well as Victory ships. From April to August 1944 he was on the MV Sabine Pass in the Admiralty Islands. He was aboard the SS South Africa Victory from September to December 1944, and served in the Ulithi Atoll as well as other voyages that took him to the Philippine Islands, Okinawa and China. His service in the merchant marine ended in December 1945.

He is survived by a son, Douglass Wiles, and his wife Diane; daughter, Nancy Snow, and husband Chris; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.