It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking and unexpected passing of Niles August Tilenius, a gifted professional aviator, pilot, and flight instructor, as well as an accomplished musician and entertainer, who tragically died at the young age of 22. Niles was a rare soul—wise beyond his years, endlessly kind, and deeply compassionate. To everyone who knew him, he was a light — someone who lifted spirits, built bridges, and saw the best in others. His radiant smile, warmth, and generosity of heart touched countless lives, and his absence leaves an immeasurable void.
Niles passed away on the afternoon of Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Erie, Colorado, following the crash of a single-engine light aircraft he was piloting alongside a student. The accident is believed to have been caused by sudden and powerful wind shear near the runway. The loss was both devastating and surreal — the kind of tragedy that feels incomprehensible, especially for someone with so much promise, passion, and purpose ahead.
Niles is lovingly survived by his parents, Stephanie Schear Tilenius and Eric William Tilenius, his brother Liam Everett Tilenius, and a large circle of extended family and dear friends who adored him.
Born on July 8, 2003, in Stanford, California, Niles spent his childhood in Hillsborough, where he attended West Elementary and Crocker Middle School before graduating from Crystal Springs Uplands School in 2021. Even as a young boy, he radiated joy and curiosity. He immersed himself in music and performance, participating in musical theatre with Pied Piper Players, singing with the Ragazzi Boys’ Chorus, and performing piano recitals that showcased both his discipline and natural talent. At Crystal Springs, he was not only an academic standout but also a leader—Captain of the Cross-Country Team, co-founder of the Green Team Sustainability Program, and a drummer in the local rock band Charge!—beloved for its high-energy renditions of classic songs by Rush and other rock icons.
In 2017, Niles became a Bar Mitzvah at Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo, where he continued to live out his Jewish values through community service. He served on the Board of the North Peninsula Jewish Teen Foundation, helping raise and distribute charitable funds to those in need. His innate empathy and drive to make the world better were evident from a young age.
Niles went on to attend Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where he studied environmental and applied sciences while running cross-country. However, it was during a later chapter of his life that he discovered his ultimate calling — aviation. After taking a leave from college, Niles enrolled at ATP Flight School, where he earned his pilot’s license and quickly advanced through instrument, commercial, multi-engine, and flight instructor certifications. He went on to teach at ATP in Livermore, CA, TrexAir Aviation Academy in Concord, CA, and most recently Odyssey Pilot Hours in Erie, CO.
His talent and dedication earned him a place in United Airlines’ Aviate Program, an elite fast-track pathway to becoming a United Airlines first officer. He also volunteered with Angel Flight West, providing free flights to patients in need of medical transport. Niles had recently accepted an offer to join GoJet Airlines, a United Express carrier, with his first day scheduled for November 18, 2025—a milestone he was eagerly anticipating. His dream of becoming a commercial pilot had finally come true.
Colleagues and fellow aviators remember Niles as a pilot of remarkable intelligence, precision, and humility. He was meticulous, calm under pressure, and endlessly passionate about the craft of flight. For him, the sky represented not just freedom, but purpose.
In addition to his aviation career, Niles continued to nurture his musical and performing side, working as a Master of Ceremonies with Main Stage Productions of Palo Alto, where his charisma, humor, and joy brought celebrations to life. Whether behind a drum kit, a microphone, or the controls of a cockpit, Niles shared his light effortlessly.
Niles’ family has created a tribute page where loved ones are invited to share photos, memories, and videos celebrating his extraordinary life: Kudoboard Tribute Page.
A private family burial will be held, followed by Jewish Funeral Services at Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo, California, on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. A larger Memorial Service and Life Celebration is planned for January 2026, to include all whose lives Niles touched. Those wishing to attend may share their information here.
Niles Tilenius lived a life of meaning, love, and brilliance — one that burned brightly, even if far too briefly. His passion for flight, his artistry, his laughter, and his kindness will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him. Though his time on Earth was short, his legacy will soar eternally among the skies he loved so deeply.
