Owen Rodger Stiles was born in New York City, New York, on July 31, 1945 while his father was finishing his active duty during World War II. Returning to Tiffin, Seneca County, Ohio after a short six months, he attended public schools, graduating from Columbian High School in 1963. Owen enlisted in the U.S. Navy and made it a career, settling in San Diego. He obtained an Associate’s Degree from Grossmont College and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from National University. In 1989 Owen returned to college at Point Loma Nazarene College in San Diego, obtained a secondary teaching credential in business and taught in San Diego for seven years. He moved to Gridley, California, where he now resides. He then returned to college, obtained a social studies credential and taught government, economics and world history at the local high school.

Upon retirement from teaching in 2007, Owen began to pursue his passion for history. He became a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, General George Washington Chapter of Chico, California. He also joined the SUVCW, becoming a Brother in the Gen. George Wright Camp 22 of Elk Grove, California, and a member of the Society of the War of 1812. His patriotism also extended to membership in the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans. Owen is a Past Commander of Camp 22. In 2015 he organized the Henry C. Veatch Camp No. 30 in Gridley, California. He was conferred the honors of Past Department Commander for his service of over 10 years as Department Secretary.

Owen traces his Civil War ancestry to Phillip Stiles, a private in the 51st Regiment Ohio Voluntary Infantry. Additionally he has found 23 other ancestors who fought for the Union, two of which, Robert and Mathias Elliott, gave their lives at the Battle of Atlanta.