John E Miller | February 20, 1949 - March 12, 2022
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Mar 16, 2022 | 12:50 PM / 445 views
John E Miller died overlooking the shore of Lake Oahe on March 12, 2022 in the arms of his oldest and youngest sons. This marked a peaceful end to a remarkable life.
A Memorial Celebration of his life will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, March 19, 2022 at First United Methodist Church. His service will also be broadcast live in the video window below:
John was born on February 20, 1949 in Viborg, SD to John and Frances “Penny” Miller. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years and was also by his side and shared life with him to his final breath along with his adoring children and their families: Dustin (Patrica) Miller, Jenni (Todd) Nelson, Lexi (David) Moore, Johnny Miller and Alex Miller. His children gave him his biggest fans by having eight grandchildren: Kayla Bird, Chantel Jensen, John Nelson, Hannah Nelson, Austin Foley, Mazzi Moore, Penni Moore and Madyson Miller. His grandchildren gave him seven beloved great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Jack (Lona) Miller, Sioux Falls, SD, Tricia (Bob) Branchaud, Lincoln, NE, Karin Miller, Mora, MN, Erik (Candy) Miller, Colton, SD and brother-in-law Rocky Alexander (Onida, SD) along with nine nieces and nephews.
John played important roles on many teams, a brother, an athlete, a gifted engineer, a fisherman and his most successful position, as a father. He tackled each one with integrity, unwavering dedication and hard work.
From a young age he was a gifted athlete who put in time both on and off the field, always finding himself in leadership spots. His skills at quarterback for the Washington Warriors of Sioux Falls, SD led him to pursue an education and athletic career at South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD. He played on the Jack Rabbit football and basketball teams while excelling in the engineering program, joining Lambda Chi Alpha, the Army ROTC and being elected student body president. Most importantly, his extracurricular time downtown put him on the same dance floor as Jacqueline Alexander.
The two shared a whirlwind romance and were married in Pierre, SD on Sept. 4, 1971 at the start of their senior year. They went on to raise their children in Nebraska and South Dakota. He eagerly supported and participated in his children’s athletic and educational pursuits without hesitation. His advice to his children would come in small impactful morsels of logic and reason. When he had something to say, they always listened. For him, making sure they had access to what they needed was always a top priority. From coaching to homework help, making pinewood derby cars or Cub Scout Cakes he was always there with patient guidance. He instilled in each of his children and grandchildren a love and respect for the power of nature. He taught them to find enjoyment in the setting sun, a well roasted hot dog and a properly tied spinner.
John Miller was an honest man who dedicated the final decades of his life to creating a legacy for his family for many generations to come. In June of 2006 he and Jacque made the decision to purchase Pike Haven Resort on Lake Oahe in South Dakota. He spent nearly every moment for the next 16 years cultivating his piece of heaven not just for his family but for countless others who have visited or called Pike Haven home. His goal from the beginning was to create a place where multi-generations could share his love of the water. Beyond raising his incredible children, the legacy of Pike Haven will forever be his greatest and most successful endeavor.
In lieu of flowers, Jacque invites friends and family to support his love of the Fourth of July by donating to the annual John E. Miller Fourth of July Memorial Celebration at Pike Haven Resort.
