Richard A. Miller
June 11th, 1935 - April 22nd, 2025
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Richard A.'s Obituary
Richard A. Miller, 89, of South Haven, Michigan, formerly of Whiting, Indiana, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on April 22 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Born on June 11, 1935, in East Chicago, Indiana, to George and Geneva Miller, Richard was a proud graduate of George Rogers Clark High School in Hammond and also attended Purdue University in West Lafayette. He was a veteran of the United States Army.
He spent most of his career with Lever Brothers in Hammond, Indiana, where he not only worked with dedication but also took on a caring role through his involvement in peer support programs, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear to his fellow employees. After retiring from Lever Brothers in 1992, Richard continued his life of service by working for over 20 years with Bethany Christian Services, where his compassionate spirit and strong faith continued to touch many lives.
A devout Christian, Richard was a passionate and active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in South Haven. His faith was central to his life, and he lived it out through his involvement in the church community, always eager to connect with others and offer encouragement and kindness.
Richard never met a stranger—his talkative, friendly nature meant he often struck up conversations wherever he went, leaving people smiling. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and took many memorable trips with his son to Minnesota. Family vacations were a cherished tradition, and after becoming empty nesters, he and Ellen enjoyed traveling together and spending peaceful days at the South Haven beach, soaking in the views they both loved.
Richard is survived by the love of his life of 58 years, Ellen (née Davis); his five children, Laura Peyton, John Peyton, Cathy (Don) Poppen, Kim (Danny) James, and Michelle Miller; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, JoAnne.
He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears—though they tested his patience more often than not, he stuck with them through every high and low, never giving up on his teams.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Friday, May 2 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 P.M., officiated by Pastor Stephen Daley, all at the church.
Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel of Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.
Born on June 11, 1935, in East Chicago, Indiana, to George and Geneva Miller, Richard was a proud graduate of George Rogers Clark High School in Hammond and also attended Purdue University in West Lafayette. He was a veteran of the United States Army.
He spent most of his career with Lever Brothers in Hammond, Indiana, where he not only worked with dedication but also took on a caring role through his involvement in peer support programs, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear to his fellow employees. After retiring from Lever Brothers in 1992, Richard continued his life of service by working for over 20 years with Bethany Christian Services, where his compassionate spirit and strong faith continued to touch many lives.
A devout Christian, Richard was a passionate and active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in South Haven. His faith was central to his life, and he lived it out through his involvement in the church community, always eager to connect with others and offer encouragement and kindness.
Richard never met a stranger—his talkative, friendly nature meant he often struck up conversations wherever he went, leaving people smiling. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and took many memorable trips with his son to Minnesota. Family vacations were a cherished tradition, and after becoming empty nesters, he and Ellen enjoyed traveling together and spending peaceful days at the South Haven beach, soaking in the views they both loved.
Richard is survived by the love of his life of 58 years, Ellen (née Davis); his five children, Laura Peyton, John Peyton, Cathy (Don) Poppen, Kim (Danny) James, and Michelle Miller; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, JoAnne.
He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears—though they tested his patience more often than not, he stuck with them through every high and low, never giving up on his teams.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Friday, May 2 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 P.M., officiated by Pastor Stephen Daley, all at the church.
Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel of Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.
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