1936-2026
Surrounded by loved ones, Richard L. Miller (Dick), 92, was called home by his Lord and Savior on July 24, 2026, in Great Bend, Kansas.
Dick was born on July 1, 1934, to Gottfried and Marie Miller in Ellinwood, Kansas. When Richard was a Junior in High School he met the love of his life, Dorothy Maples. They were married the following year on November 27, 1953, in Yuma, Arizona. Throughout their 70 years of marriage, they lived primarily in Great Bend and Ellinwood and were members of St. Mark Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran.
Dick and Dorothy were blessed with three children, Debra Hodge (James, deceased), Dana McVay (James), and Rick Miller (Amber), all of Great Bend.
Dick was lovingly known as Papa to his grandchildren, Laci Rusco (Jamie) of Emporia, Kansas, Sophia McVay of Great Bend, Kansas, Jami Mann (Levi) of Wichita, Kansas, and great grandchildren Myah Frick (Kyle), Max Rusco, Molly Rusco, Charlie Kratz, Wyatt Kratz, Judah Mann, Lane Kratz and Silas Mann (October 2026) and great great grandchildren Finn Frick, and Rory Frick (November 2026).
He leaves behind his devoted companion, Rusty.
Dick was welcomed home by his wife, Dorothy, his parents, his three brothers Gottfried Miller, Jr., Vernon Miller, and Robert Miller, his four sisters Alvera Miller, Lydia Ailshie, Emma Beardslee, Barbara Gregory.
Dick enlisted in the Navy in July 1952. He served during the Korean War Conflict onboard the U.S.S. BAIROKO (CVE-115). He was honored with the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. After being honorably discharged from the Navy in March 1955, he attended Ranger Junior College, Breckenridge, Texas to study Business Administration and Accounting. Throughout his career he worked as an Accountant, primarily in Oil and Gas and ranching operations.
Throughout his 92 years, Dick loved his family fiercely. He was deeply devoted, generous, and protective. His heart of gold was evident in his every act of kindness, words of encouragement, and every prayer offered.
His private celebration of life was held on July 29, 2026, at Bryant Funeral Home, Great Bend, Kansas.
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