Robert “Bob” Miller Sr. would have celebrated his 91st birthday on October 29, 2022, instead, he had other plans and is now celebrating in heaven with his beloved Josephine and son Leland “Scooter”.
Bob was born in Globe, AZ to Leland and Pearl Miller and was the youngest of two boys to include his brother Donald- RIP. In 1951 he enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean War where he was a Gunner’s Mate on the USS Saint Paul. His commitment ended in 1954, and on June 6, 1956 he married Josephine Marie LaBarbera who he loved and cherished until her death, on March 3, 1990.
His career was with the Mountain Bell telephone company. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who ensured his sons and grandsons would share the same passion for the sport as he did. There were numerous outings to include camping trips, lots of stories, laughs and jokes with his longtime friends he
now joins in the woods and lakes of heaven. Summers in Pinetop, AZ were what Bob looked forward to as he enjoyed the game of golf at White Mountain Country Club.
It goes without saying, Bob lived life to the fullest and will be remembered and cherished by his sons and daughters-in-law, Michael (Janet-RIP), Christopher (Veronica), Gary (Michelle), Robert Jr. (Michele). His grandchildren were blessed to have an amazing Papa who loved him dearly, NiKole (Craig), Gary,
Jennifer (Jon), GianCarlo, Marie, Dominic, Justin, Maricela (Dillon), Ashton (Alexia), and Madison. The littlest Millers will now see their “Butterfly Papa” watching over them, Levi, Isabella, Beaux, Trent, DeLuca, Wyatt, Cayson, Eloise, Avery and Enzo. Bob is also survived by Josephine’s brother and sister-in-law, Sam and Janet LaBarbera. Bob leaves behind his wife of 31 years Janet Ryan Miller, along with stepsons Timothy (Jennifer) and Dan, grandchildren, Andrew, Nick, Alex, Jackson, and Miranda Ryan.
Rest easy Dad, your legacy lives on in us!
We are eternally grateful for the caregivers who did an amazing job keeping dad comfortable and to Fleur Magbanua with Arizona American Hospice, she was with our family every step of dad’s journey. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to https://azamericanhospice.org/.
A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held at Saint Mary’s Basilica, 231 n. 3rd Street in Phoenix, on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 with a 9:00am visitation followed promptly by a 10:00am Mass. Reception to follow at the Basilica Hall.
Michelle Colen
Janet,
I am so thankful I was able to visit with you and Bob this summer in Pinetop. Even though Bob was struggling then he still had his great sense of humor. Janet your strength the last few years was a remarkable sign of your love for each other. I remember when you started dating and got engaged, what a blessing for both of you to find each other. Even the random little boys (angels) watched your union. I know you have many great memories and I hope that will help ease the pain. I love you. RIP Bob, you were one of the good ones.
Gwen Ayala
Sending, much Love and Condolences to this Beautiful Miller family ~ “Rest in Paradise ” Bob you will be truly missed ❤️
Penny Kissel
Janet,
It has been a pleasure getting to know and visit with Bob over the last few years both at Silverado Golf Course and your’s and his beloved Pinetop. You showed such strength and love as you cared for Bob over the last few years. He was so fortunate to find and fall in love with you. May he now be at peace with the Lord. My prayers and condolences for you now.
Your friend, Penny
Sandy Wood
Gary & Family
So sorry for your loss. Sounds like Bob was such a fun dad & an amazing grandfather. I’m sure your memories of him will live forever in your hearts.
Rhoda L Fraizer
Gary , Michelle and family
There was such love shown to your father by you and family. Such devotion to his care and comfort is what we saw on a daily basis from you and family. Even though we never knew your father, it always felt like we knew him by all the memories you talked about. Memories for your heart through this loss of a father. Hugs and love to you both Gary and Michelle,
Gary and Rhoda Fraizer
Dolores (Dolly) Moreno
Thinking of you, praying for God’s comfort and blessings to help you through your sorrow Much love to all your family. Dolly (Renteria) Moreno