John Miller, 77, Red Owl, SD, passed away at his home March 12, 2024.
John P. Miller was born on February 10, 1947 in Coleman, Texas. John was the first son of J.P. (Bub) Miller, Jr. and Patsy Jamison Miller. Bub and Patsy left Texas for South Dakota with their son, John in April of 1947, when John was just 5 weeks old. They lived west of Faith until the fall of 1957. When it was time for John to go to school, Patsy was hired as the teacher. John’s brother, Tom was born in 1948. When it was time for Tom to go to school Patsy moved the boys to attend school in Sturgis. John graduated from Sturgis High School in 1965 and attended Black Hills State College for 2 years.
John was married to Colleen Donohue and they moved to the Walter Place west of Faith, SD. Their daughter, Mary Catherine (Cathy) was born May 9, 1969.
John bought a J3 Cub from Billy Simons and learned to fly. Although his flying career didn’t last long, he had a lot of other passions. He loved horses whether saddle horses or working with teams. He started feeding with a team of horses in the late 60’s and continued training teams until the early 80’s. Another one of John’s passions was picking up at rodeos. John also loved playing music and entertaining. He played in a band from time to time and was still playing his guitar and singing until he passed.
Survivors include his daughters, Cathy Miller, Corinth, TX; Noelle Heinert, Powell, WY; granddaughter, Baxter (Barry) Greenwald, Lingle, WY; brother, Tom (Vivian) Miller, Red Owl, SD; nephews, Jeff (Ashlee) Miller, Coleman, TX and Ryan Miller, Aledo, TX; great nieces, Braylin, Italee, and Irelynd Miller.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Bub and Patsy Miller; grandparents, Jake and Mary Miller and Tom and Clarence Jamison; and Colleen Miller.
Memorial services will be held Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at the Red Owl Community Hall. Burial will follow at Pleasantview Red Owl Cemetery. In Lieu of Flowers a memorial has been established to the Red Owl Hall.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkladefinerals.com.
