Orrin William Niles was born in Seattle, Washington, December 7, 1919, to Milo and Clara (Bohn) Niles. He attended Phinney Ridge Elementary and graduated from Ballard High School. Orrin served as purchasing officer in the Navy during the 2nd World War. Following his discharge after the War, he worked in the Naval supply department as a civilian.

Our Brother was initiated into Greenwood Lodge No. 253, September 13, 1950. He was passed to a Fellowcraft Mason, October 25, 1950, and raised a Master Mason, November 22, 1950. Bro. Niles was also a member of St. John's Lodge No. 9, and Occidental Lodge No. 72. He was most active in the Royal Arch of the Masonic York Rite, and served as High Priest. Our brother was a dedicated Mason for 60 years.

Bro. Orrin was loved by all his brethren, and was named an Honorary Past Master by his brothers in Greenwood Lodge. His musical talents on the piano and as an organist were well known as he served fourteen lodges during his Masonic career. Bro. Niles held the office of Grand Organist for two Grand Masters. He received the Grand Master's Achievement Award in 2003.

Besides his Masonry and his music, Bro. Orrin loved to read, study religion and philosophy, and explore old automobiles. The family Model A was both a challenge and inspiration.

Love caught up with Bro. Niles late in life and Elizabeth (Bettie) Roma thoroughly swept him off his feet. They married on New Year's Day, 1992, and a confirmed bachelor of 72 years found an immediate family with Bettie and her five children. They were happily married for ten years before she preceded him in death in 2002.

Our Grand Master WBro. Gale Kenney shares these words: "On several occasions, we have sat down and chatted about Masonry, the lodges that he had played the organ for, his family, the Second World War and life in general. It was heart-warming to see his eyes light up and twinkle as he shared these wonderful memories. It was as though he had transformed into his younger self as he re-lived his life for me in great detail."

Our brother passed to the Celestial Lodge at the age of 90 in Seattle, Washington, on January 22, 2010. He is survived by five stepchildren, Linda Simicich, Virginia Fisher, Mike Roma, Jim Roma, and Ken Roma. Funeral services were held Friday, January 29, at Evergreen-Washelli. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.