Gertrude M. Miller

GERTRUDE M. MILLER, 96, passed away August 31, 2022. Preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; son Michael; and grandsons, Michael Miller, Jr., Garry Conley, Jr., and Scott Conley. She is survived by her children Joan (Bob) Haley, Mark (Jane) Miller, Joyce (Steve) Harris, Connie (David) Hof and Paul Miller; grandchildren Diona (Dean) Cozzolino, Heather (Mike) Strobel, Paul Haley, Andrea Pryor, Shannon Montano, Eric Miller, Pamela Spellman, and Thomas Frost, Jr. Also, 17 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Foremost in Gertrude’s life was her faith. She was a founding member of Holy Family Parish and faithfully attended Mass on Sundays, Holy Days, and when possible daily. She was active in parish life through the Ladies of Mary Society, the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, and as Sacristan for weekday masses. She assisted with decorating the church for various holidays and often would be found tending the church flower beds following weekday masses.

She and Raymond were married for 59 years before he passed away in 2003. They always made time for each other and spent much of their time dancing, attending high school sporting events, and traveling throughout the United States and Europe.

Mom was a loving homemaker and dedicated to her family. She was always there for us to offer advice, guidance, or when we just needed to talk. (Not that we necessarily agreed with her comments but generally we found out she was right.) She taught us how to sew, cook and make candy, and decorate for birthdays and holidays. We learned the reasons for rules and the consequences for breaking them. She taught us how to enjoy life. When most of us moved into adulthood she started doing daycare. By the time she retired after 16 years, she had touched the lives of 96 children.

Crafting was one of mom’s hobbies. She would spend hours making trinkets and preparing for seasonal craft shows. She was known for the hats she wore to church and on other occasions. After Raymond’s death, mom continued to travel making many solo trips back to Kansas to visit family and friends. She was known to have a lead foot and was often invited by local law enforcement to discuss the need for a speed limit.

Gertrude has touched many lives. She will live on in the memories and hearts of her family and friends. Think of a time she touched your life and carry it with you. Remember her as a loving mother and true friend.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.tgmccarthy.com for the Miller family.