John Gilbert Niles died in Santa Monica, California on March 9, 2022 after a short illness. He was born on October 5, 1943 in Dallas, Texas to Paul Dickerman Niles and Nedra Arendts Niles. John graduated from Stanford University in 1965 and received his law degree from the University of Texas in 1968. He served in the United States Navy Judge Advocate General Corps from 1968 to 1972, stationed in Newport, Rhode Island, New York City, Vietnam and Sicily. He was awarded the Naval Commendation Medal for his service in Vietnam.

After completing his military duty John moved with his new wife to Los Angeles where he joined the law firm of O’Melveny and Myers, becoming a partner in 1978 and retiring in 2004. He specialized in corporate litigation and over the years worked for clients on a variety of issues most notably the expansive California coordinated asbestos insurance coverage litigation. The relationships he held with his O’Melveny colleagues were a source of great pleasure and pride.

John was an avid world traveler, an accomplished sailor, a patron of music, a lover of books and a seeker of knowledge. He had a passion for cars, science fiction and good food, most especially Texas barbecue. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he will be fondly remembered by his friends and family for his integrity, kindness, generosity and a quick sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife Marian Higginbotham Niles and their two sons Paul B. Niles (Andria) of Friendswood, Texas and Matthew H. Niles (Kathleen) of Los Angeles, California as well as 5 grandchildren: Thomas, Sophia, Zoe, Nathaniel and Oliver.

A memorial service is planned on April 8, 2022 at 11AM at Temescal Gateway Park in Pacific Palisades. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s honor to the William Wayne Justice Center for Public Interest Law at the University of Texas.

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