Philanthropist Earle M. Chiles Dies at 83

Earle M. Chiles, a local businessman and philanthropist, died Thursday at age 83.

Chiles, whose grandfather was supermarket pioneer Fred Meyer, passed away after a long illness, according to a statement from the University of Portland where he had been on the Board of Regents since 1975.

"We will be forever grateful to Earle Chiles's steadfast devotion and generosity to the University of Portland over the decades," said University President Reverend Mark Poorman. "His many gifts are visible across the campus, from the Earle A. and Virginia H. Chiles Center and Pilot Athletics to Campus Ministry and student scholarships.

"In addition, his inspiring leadership and service influenced others to add their support to the campus, as well."

In addition to his work with the university, Chiles was a lifetime member of the board of the Oregon Symphony Association, a life trustee of the High Desert Museum in Bend, and a board member of the Providence Portland Medical Foundation.

He also served on the boards of several universities including Harvard and Stanford Business schools.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 1 at St. Mary's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1716 NW Davis St. in Portland.

A luncheon will be held afterwards at the Earle A. and Virginia H. Chiles Center on the University of Portland campus.