DeNee Millar passed away June 22, 2019, at the age of 101. She died peacefully on her own terms, surrounded by her family, at the Gardens of Scottsdale where she lived for the past two years.
DeNee was born on October 30, 1917, on the family farm in Conklin Township, N.D. to Phillip & Helen Norden. She grew up on the family farm and attended high school in nearby Jamestown, ND. After graduating from Jamestown High School, she worked as a dental assistant for several years prior to her marriage to Raymond Millar on August 28, 1940. After her three daughters left home she returned to work as a business manager for a dental office.
DeNee was an accomplished seamstress and wonderful cook, practically world renowned for her cinnamon rolls! She was an active member and volunteer in the First Methodist Church and an avid bridge player.
She and her husband moved to Phoenix seven years ago where they lived with her daughter and son-in-law, RaNee and Larry Tuscano for five years and then at the Gardens of Scottsdale.
DeNee is survived by two daughters, RaNee Tuscano and Janice Millar Macdonald, and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter Patricia Vorachek and her husband Raymond Millar.
A special thanks to all her caregivers at the Gardens of Scottsdale and Serenity Hospice.
Memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix.
Scott Smith
My mom and Denee were the best of friends, and what incredible memories I have spending time with both Ray and Denee! She was one of the most friendly and helpful people I have ever known. Even back in the 5th grade when I broke my nose playing hockey, I ran to her house and she was right there to help. She was a fantastic cook, and we spent many an hour at her house eating her wonderful food. Denee organized my complete graduation party back in 1985, and it was one of the best I´ve ever seen. Even as I went on to college, she continued to be a great friend, always providing me with pickled beets and other goodies. When I moved to Germany, we still kept in touch even after my mother, June Smith, passed away. We kept in touch for a few years after that, and then lost contact. I have often wondered what happened to her and Ray. I have such fond memories, and she will be missed greatly. RaNee, Janice, and especially Kris, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. No matter how much a person gets on in years, it´s still a great loss. I, along with you all, will miss her deeply. Scott Smith
Alan Garza
I just saw this. My prayers. Denee and Dellas were the youngest of the Norden family. My great grandmother Ellen was the oldest. My grandmother Lorraine was her niece, and stayed in contact. My grandmother is 93 now and still speaks of her. Such a rich family history. Bless you all