Richard O. Miller

ELKHART — Mr. Richard O. “Rich” Miller, 73, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully with his family at his side following an extended illness at his home on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018 at 10:35 p.m.

He was born April 21, 1944 in Mishawaka to the late Robert and Gertrude “Trudy” (Thornton) Miller.

On July 25, 1986, he married Linda M. Judd in Elkhart. She survives at home.

Also surviving are his sons David M. (Lee Ann) Miller, Richard “Eric” Miller, Robert “Ryan” (Whitney) Miller, and Joshua T. Gibson; as well as Ryan’s children Makhaila and Beckett Miller, who are grandchildren. A host of in-laws, cousins and nephews survive as well.

In accordance with his wishes, Rich is to be cremated and a memorial service will be held at Billings Funeral Home, of Elkhart, on Monday, Jan. 22, 2018 at 7 p.m., with visitation beginning at 5 p.m.

Pastor Ralph Vander Werf of the Calvary Baptist Church, of Elkhart, will officiate and the US Army Funeral Honor Guard and Elkhart DAV #19 will render military honors following services at the funeral home.

Rich was an area residential repair technician for GTE and Verizon serving the Dunlap area for 43 years, lovingly known as the “phone man.”

He enjoyed puttering around in his yard and collecting sports memorabilia, and he never missed a chance to hang out with his family and friends in his garage which he had converted into a respectable “man cave”. He was also a proud Vietnam veteran, serving as an Army Engineer Sergeant.

His quiet strength, love and resolve always served as an inspiration to his family; letting them know that, even in his absence, all would be well.

“Toodle loo,” as he would always say, to a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Because of his special love for all of God’s creatures, memorial donations may be given to the Humane Society of Elkhart County.

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