September 30, 1937 – December 27, 2020
With his family by his side, Gary Lee Miller, 83, Noblesville, passed away on December 27, 2020, after a several-year struggle with a progressive neurological disorder that left him unable to do the many activities that brought him joy. He was born September 30, 1937, in Ridgeville, Ind., to the late Chester “Chet” and M. Fern (Rust) Miller.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Barbara (Jensen) Miller; children, Kip (Suzanne) Miller, Greg (Audra) Miller, Shawn (Steve) Moore and Kirsten (Chris) Toner; grandchildren, Geoffrey (Kari) Miller, Nina (Matt) Matonich, Emily (Devin) Powell, Max Miller, Carson Moore, Avery Hancock, Clayton Toner, Walker Moore, Gretchen Moore, Ellen Toner and Graham Toner; great-granddaughter, Mae Rose Matonich; sister-in-law, Janet Jensen Laverty; brother-in-law, Skip (Linda) Jensen; former daughter-in-law, Kellie (Tom) Hargen; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. His brother Mike predeceased him.
Gary’s family brought him the most joy in life. He was a devoted, much-loved husband, father, grandfather (“Papaw”), great-grandfather, son, brother, teacher, coach and mentor. He took great pleasure in attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sports events, concerts, graduations and weddings throughout the years. He and Barbara traveled throughout the 50 states, and he particularly loved the national parks and presidential historical sites. Their favorite times were spent for many years at Gulf Shores, Ala., and at Hilton Head Island, S.C., making wonderful memories at their annual family beach vacations.
Gary received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Ball State University, and he also attended Greensboro College. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, Indianapolis Civil War Round Table, Red-tail Land Conservancy, Indiana Historical Society, Indiana Retired Teachers Association and The Nature Conservancy. He was a member of All Souls Unitarian Church in Indianapolis. He taught American history and coached several sports at Storer and Northside Middle Schools in Muncie from 1966 until 1998, and also taught in Colorado from 1998 until his retirement and return to Indiana in 2002. He volunteered at Conner Prairie and at Riverview Health Center.
Gary enjoyed birding, gardening, hiking, genealogy and anything related to American history. He loved listening to his blues music. He was an avid runner for many years. He was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan and he was also a fan of the Indianapolis Colts, the Cincinnati Reds and the Indianapolis Indians.
His family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Wellbrooke of Westfield and Paradigm Hospice for the incredible care given to Gary that allowed his journey to end with peace and dignity.
A private family graveside service will be held in the near future and a gathering to celebrate his life will take place at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to All Souls Unitarian Church, 5805 E. 56th St., Indianapolis, IN 46226; or to the Red-tail Land Conservancy, 125 E. Charles St., Muncie, IN 47305.
Randall & Roberts Funeral Homes in Noblesville will handle arrangements.
Condolences: randallroberts.com