David Howard Miller

David Howard Miller, affectionately known as "Dave" and "Chews," passed away on December 16, 2024, at McLaren Greater Lansing in Lansing, Michigan, after courageously battling cancer. He was 82 years old.

Born on July 2, 1942, in Lansing, Michigan, to Howard Ralph Miller and Wynell Elizabeth Harmon Miller, Dave grew up in the city he loved and called home throughout his life. After graduating from high school in Lansing, he pursued bartending coursework at Lansing Community College and later established a private bartending service which he was able to do on the side in the late 1970's.

Dave served honorably in the U.S. Navy from July 30, 1956, to July 29, 1965, aboard the USS Okinawa. Following his military service, he dedicated 38 years to Ren Plastics Ciba-Geigy as a valued employee and UAW union representative. He was driven to represent his fellow employees to provide all he could for members and their families. Dave was honored with the UAW Walter P. Reuther Award for distinguished service upon his retirement from Ren Plastics. He was also an active member of the American Legion, VFW, and American Military League.

A man of many passions, Dave enjoyed playing softball with his colleagues at Ren Plastics and spending time with friends at Paul Revere's Tavern in East Lansing—a place he considered a second home. He loved camping and bonfires at Holiday Park Campground in Traverse City, gambling trips, boating adventures, and traveling. Known for his fun-loving spirit and willingness to help anyone in need, Dave was a "diamond in the rough" who found joy in handyman projects and cherished time spent with family and friends. He had a special fondness for Monopoly marathons with his daughters, foods covered in gravy and butter, and sneaking treats to his beloved dogs.

Dave is survived by his wife Mary Jo Miller; daughters Robin Sue Miller Smith (Chuck) and Jill Ann Miller Sorenson (Jim); grandson Dalton Cole Stauffer; great-grandchild Arabella Dulce Lee; brother Jerry Cole; nieces and nephews Pat and Michelle Lewis, Jerry and Paula Miller, Tracie and Debbie Elliott, and Toni Teachout; brother-in-law John Veverka; as well as extended family and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Joan Elliott, Mike Miller, and Judy Veverka.

Services will be announced at a later date. May Dave’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him.