Ronald Jacob Miller

Ronald Jacob Miller, known affectionately as Ron, passed away on December 11, 2023 at the age of 92. Born on July 3, 1931, in Sac City, Iowa, he was the son of the late Howard and Pearl Miller. He was born with a twin brother who passed away at birth, but Ron was fortunate to grow up with 9 siblings. When Ron was 12 years old he and his family moved from Iowa to Oregon, where he lived out the rest of his life.

In his early years Ron proudly served in the United States Army and in Korea. He often spoke about the war and his adventures in the Army. But he always spoke about writing letters with his sweetheart Beverly (Bev) Dene Lowe.

His sister introduced Ron and Bev and the two became lifelong loves. Ron married his adoring wife in 1954 and together they built a life centered around the three things they loved the most: their family, their children and God. Their lives together were deep rooted in love, laughter and helping others.

Ron was a devoted father of six children: April, Julie, Tamera, Nyla, Millard and Jeffrey, all who in turn filled Ron’s life with joy as they were the cornerstone of his life. He raised all six his children with pride and admiration.

His career as a truck driver made for long hours, days and time away from his family, but Ron made it his life’s mission to always care and provide for his family with hard work and determination. Ron’s commitment to his nation and his family was paralleled by his dedication to his community, where he was a familiar face at the local American Legion on Sauvie’s Island and offering a helping hand wherever it was needed.

Ron’s hobbies were a reflection of his love for life, learning and teaching others. He found pleasure in the simple joys in life with hunting, fishing, gardening, playing cribbage and dominos. Ron’s quick wit and love for storytelling made him the heart of every gathering. Ron and Bev loved canning and teaching their children and grandchildren this skill that had been handed down to them from their parents. He often would make homemade ice cream for his grandchildren to enjoy.

Ron was a servant of his Lord and Savior and an excellent student of God’s Word. His faith provided him comfort and strength throughout his life’s journey. He was a member of University Park Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of St. John’s and Yankton Baptist Church.

During his wonderful life, Eighteen Grandchildren, Twenty Five Great Grandchildren and Two Great Great Grandchildren have all had the honor of calling him Grandpa. As a grandpa to many, he had ears that truly listened, endless hugs to always hold each one, and a guiding hand on their shoulder.

Ron will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his friends and family. If you knew Ron, you knew he struggled with wanting to stay here with his family but needing to also join his beautiful wife with God. That shows the love he had endlessly for his family. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity, strength, and full of love for those who went before him. He will be missed dearly.