Leo Miller

Leo Merle Miller, son of Portland and Grace (Pfander) Miller, was born February 7, 1918 in Sharpsburg, IA, where he grew up and at the age of 13 began working full time on the family farm. Following his schooling, Leo began working on farms in northern Minnesota during harvest. While on one of these trips he met Naomi Rau. They were united in marriage June 9, 1940. To this union six children were born. Following their marriage, the couple lived west of Donnelly, where Leo continued farming for several years. The family eventually moved to the Twin Cities, where Leo worked many years for the Robbinsdale School District. When Leo retired, he and Naomi moved to their lake home near Brandon, Minnesota. They later moved to Morris, where they have continued to live since that time.

Leo always enjoyed building things and working with his hands. Leo was also very musically inclined and enjoyed playing several different instruments including the harmonica. Leo and Naomi were united in marriage for 69 years.

Leo died on Monday, July 13, 2009 at West Wind Village in Morris, Minnesota, having lived to reach the age of 91 years.

He is survived by his wife: Naomi Miller of Morris; four sons: Roger (Kathryn) Miller of Nova Scotia, Gary (Lucille) Miller of Plymouth, Dale (Marti) Miller of Bozeman, MT and Mark (Kimberly) Miller of Joyce, IA; two daughters: Darlene (Harold) Ovnan of Perley and Carol Jean (Dennis) Aslakson of Lincoln, NB; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; two brothers: Edwin (Marlene) Miller and Howard Miller both of Bedford, IA and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers: Raymond Miller, Marvin Miller, Elvin Miller and one sister: Lola Miller.

Pallbearers for the service are: Daniel Rau, Eldon Brustuen, Paul Hickey, Wayne Maanum, Donn Rau and Douglas Wartner. Honorary Pallbearers are all of Leo’s nieces and nephews. Emily Brustuen will serve as organist for the service with Jane Johnson serving as soloist. Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations are preferred to the Parkinson’s Foundation or the Salvation Army.