Ken Niles

Ken Niles, a devoted family man, passionate outdoorsman, and respected figure in commercial real estate development, passed away on July 7, 2026, surrounded by his five children at his home in Sonoma. He died at peace, looking forward to reuniting with Betsy, the love of his life who predeceased him five years earlier. Born April 25, 1937 in Santa Rosa, Ken graduated the University of Colorado, Boulder, and married Betsy in 1967. Together they raised their family in Sonoma—the community he helped shape through his work—inspiring in their children a deep love for the outdoors, a can-do attitude, and the freedom to be themselves. He is survived by his five children: Kelly, Dusty, Amy, David, and Jake; four grandchildren: Adelle, Dharma, Scarlett, Bruce, and two siblings: Marilyn and Rick. An avid hunter and fisherman, Ken earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for catching more than 80 species of fish in all fifty states in fifty weeks, all on a fly rod—a journey he shared with Betsy. Their shared passion for the outdoors became a cornerstone of family life, instilling in their children a lifelong appreciation for nature and adventure. Professionally, Ken deeply valued the relationships he built with tenants, contractors, and the community, always approaching his work with integrity and long-term thinking. Ken will be remembered by his family, friends, and all those who worked with him as an adventurous, generous man who was never afraid of hard work and accomplished things in his own unique way, always pushing others to their fullest potential. His spirit, independence, and love for life leave a lasting legacy in everyone who knew him.

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