DONALD R. MILLER

May 4, 1931 - Dec. 24, 2011
SOUTH BEND - Donald "Don" Richard Miller, 80, of South Bend, Indiana passed away at 12:20 p.m., Saturday, December 24, peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Don was born May 4, 1931, in South Bend, IN, the son of Maurice and Theresa (Lamenski) Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents and his uncle and aunt, John and Mary Stickley.

He graduated from Central High School of South Bend, Indiana in 1950.

On March 3rd, 1951 he married Velma May Hamill. Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Velma; and five children: a daughter, Debbie (Robert) Martin of Granger and their sons, Doug (Angela) and Andrew (Erin); a son, Richard Miller of South Bend and his sons, Jeremy and Jason; a daughter, Diana (Bruce) Lowe of Granger and their daughters, Lisa and Carrie; a daughter, Terry Wieger of South Bend; and a son, Charlie (Jen Girten) Miller of South Bend and their sons, Josh and Jacob; and eight great grandchildren.

Don served in the Army National Guard from 1951-1955. Don was employed as a machinist at Torrington Bearings Corp. in South Bend for 33 years. Don was also the Gymnastics Instructor and Volleyball Coach for American Turners in South Bend for 30 years. Don was an Honorary Member of American Turners - South Bend where he had been President for several years and Director of Physical Education. He was a member of American Turners for 60 years. Don was the coach for the Kentucky Indiana Ohio (KIO) traveling gymnastic competition for boys and girls within the Central States District for 10 years. He loved teaching and helping youth and adults in physical education. He attended 16 National Festivals as a competitor and coach in gymnastics, track and field. He still competed in track and field this last July at the age of 80. 

He was a faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian Church where he served as an Elder on building and grounds and head usher. Don lived a full and active life enjoying, with his family and friends, boating, fishing, water skiing, gymnastics, volleyball, softball, golfing, camping, traveling, Indy races, Notre Dame women's basketball, and bowling. He bowled a 300 game at the age of 69. In retirement he developed a love for woodworking and made many beautiful things for his family and friends. He enjoyed working in his garage and home remodeling, a real Mr. Fix-It. He enjoyed his computer, photography and all electronic gadgets and tools. Don was always ready with a smile and a helping hand. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends; he will always stay in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1501 W. Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN 46628 on Saturday, January 7, 2012. The memorial service will begin at 12:00 with a one hour visitation prior to the service and a meal to follow the service. Welsheimer Family Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family with arrangements. Family and friends may leave e-mail condolences at www.welsheimer.com.

Published by South Bend Tribune on Dec. 28, 2011.

02/12/2023 EJS