UN MESSAGE DE LA FAMILLE

THE MAN WE CALL BLUE He steps on the field in his game day attire, decked out in blue, he’s our favorite umpire. When the game clock is set, he cries, “Play Ball.” John’s behind home and he’s loved by all. Time and again, year after year, he’s the man at the plate many a batter fear. Will he call it a strike? Or outside, a ball? As the batter swings, he hits for the wall. The players all love him. He could be their grandpop. When the ball is foul tipped, he often will hop. He encourages the catchers and gives batters a cheer. He’s seen many great players over the years. Some in the Minors, Majors a few. John recalls them all as they one day passed through. The love of the game and kids draw him back and the sound of the ball as the bat gives a smack. He brushes the plate and watches with pride as a young boy runs home and gives it a slide. He jumps into action and accesses the ball. This time he’s safe, whew, what a close call. When John is the umpire nerves are at ease. His calls are fair and everyone’s pleased. It’s tough being an umpire, and John is the best. All eyes are on him when it comes to a test. He’s respected by many and esteemed by us all. When he decided to retire, many a tear did fall. The ballpark will be quieter when John walks away. The players saddened, not sure what to say. The coaches will miss him, the fans nonetheless. A legend is leaving and we must regress. A little league giant, the man we call blue. John our umpire. Never the same, not without you. Written in appreciation for John Miller Putnam City Little League Baseball Fields 2003

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

John D. Miller

6 mai 1933 – 27 août 2018

AUX SOINS DE

Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery

The Man We Call Blue, John David Miller, passed away on August 27, 2018 at the age of 85. John was a beloved umpire for more than 25 years at Putnam City Optimist Little League Ballfields. An “Okie from Muskogee,” John was born on May 6, 1933, to John Zenith and Roxie Bass Miller. He graduated from Muskogee High School in 1951 and later attended Oklahoma A&M College where he met Barbara Boggs, the love of his life. After serving his country in the Navy on the USS Whiteside, John and Barbara were married August 23, 1954. An electrician by trade, community volunteer in retirement and umpire by heart, John touched the life of many a child, coach, parent and fellow man through his church, Grace United Methodist, the Salvation Army and Special Olympics. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge and a 32nd Degree Mason.

John is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 64 years; daughters, Patty Hurley and Kathy Smith and husband Kevin; three grandchildren, Brian Hurley and wife Alyshia, Brad Hurley, Bridget Sharp and spouse Chevi; and two great-grandchildren, Aiden Vanover and Chase Hurley.

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PORTEURS

Kevin Smith

Brian Hurley

Roger Wonderly

Bob Boggs

Tom Boggs

Aiden VanoverHonorary Bearer

DONS

PCO Baseball Park PO Box 939, Bethany , Oklahoma 73008

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