Gail R. Miller, age 86, of Marion, died Tuesday evening, July 17, 2012, at Partners of Marion Care Center following an extended illness.
On July 22, 1925, Gail was born in Marion, one of four children of the late Harold Fremont and Margaret (Minyoung) Miller. He attended Marion Harding High School.
Leaving school early to join the U.S. Navy, Gail honorably served his country in World War II aboard the U.S.S. Maryland. His ship patrolled the South Pacific, and he served as an electrician’s mate.
Upon his honorable discharge, Gail returned to his hometown of Marion and quickly found work at G.T.E. starting as a linesman. During a trip to Sylvania, Ohio, to work on down lines he met a switch board operator that caught his eye, Clara Marsh. Shortly thereafter they were married on May 15, 1948, in Marion, and have cherished their 64 years together.
A dedicated employee, Gail worked at G.T.E. for over 35 years in several capacities and finishing as an equipment repairman when he retired in 1985.
For over 50 years, Gail has been a member of the Masonic Lodge F. & A. M. # 70, and has been involved in all of their other governing bodies, such as the Shrine and Scottish Rite 32nd Degree. He also was a member of the American Legion Post #584, and was formerly a member of the U.S.S. Maryland Association.
Having a green thumb, Gail absolutely loved gardening and tending to his flowers. He especially enjoyed growing orchids, which he would sell locally to Hemmerly’s whenever they called.
With a love for all types of music, Gail especially enjoyed listening to classical music and his favorite artist, Andre Rieu.
Despite his strong personality, Gail often showed his ornery side, “loving to crack jokes”. He also had a soft spot for his dog, Charlie, and his favorite chair that no one else was to sit in…except the dog. He also loved and was deeply proud of his grandchildren.
He will be missed by his wife, Clara Miller; two sons: Jay (Carol) Miller, and Robin (Nancy) Miller, all three of Marion; six grandchildren: Jon (April Gross) Hero of Marion, Matthew (Emily Steiner) Miller of Tiffin Oh., Nathan (Mindi) Miller of Hawaii, Christopher Miller, Shelley Miller, and Lisa Cox; 9 great-grandchildren; a brother, Robbie (Joyce) Miller of Columbus; and several nieces and nephews.
Including his parents, Gail was preceded in death by his son, Jonathan Miller; a brother, Harold Fremont Miller Jr.; and a sister, Delores Berry.
Services for Gail will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 21, 2012, in Marion Cemetery, with Rev. Kenneth Durtsche officiating, where active duty military honors also will be performed.
Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist with unexpected expenses.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Gail’s family and your private condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
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