Obituaries & Guestbook

Gary R. Miller, 74, of Sheboygan, unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 surrounded by his family, at Memorial Hospital in Sheboygan. Gary was born in Bemidji, MN to Kermith and Goldie (Newby) Miller on April 2, 1947. He proudly graduated from Hurley High School in 1965, home of the Hurley Midgets. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from UW – Platteville in 1969. He worked for numerous consulting engineering firms, including Donohue/Rust and Zimpro, before retiring after 43 years.
Gary married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn DeZur, in Hurley WI, in 1968. Their love for each other grew over the years with devotion and commitment through all of life’s adventures and trials.
Gary was proud of his three sons who followed him into the field of engineering: Troy (Angela) Miller, Jason (Megan) Miller and Darin (Priyanka) Miller. Gary loved and cherished his grandchildren, Wesley, Isabella, Grant, Owen, Zachary, Aden, and Devin. Gary’s siblings include Jean Gatton and Jack Miller. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Kurt Miller.
Gary’s brilliant mind and driven personality were balanced by his generous heart. He persevered through many obstacles in his life, rising from humble beginnings to create a great life for his family. He was exceedingly loyal and supportive to the end.
Gary’s adventurous spirit led him to embark on travels throughout his life. He made meaningful connections and had vibrant conversations with people from all across the world. He owned multiple RV’s, the first of which he purchased as a young man. This allowed his children to visit all 48 states before they reached high school. He enjoyed buying, selling, and driving classic cars, 1960s music, and challenging himself to learn new skills, including: investing, new technology, calligraphy, recording and copywriting two songs, and the art of negotiation. He treasured watching his grandchildren at their various events. He was an avid sports enthusiast, multi-sport athlete in high school, long distance bicycler, and dedicated youth coach.
Gary’s soul was fed by forming and maintaining lifelong friendships starting with his formative years in Hurley, where he picked up the nickname “Izzy”, continuing with his Phi Sigma Chi fraternity brothers in Platteville and progressing to his many work colleagues. More recently, he was grateful for his weekly breakfast club get-togethers.
Gary was known for his generosity of time and talent. He gave willingly to many nonprofits as well as anonymously helping people in need, setting a great example for his family. Gary lived a full and amazing life. He dared to dream big, never backed down from a challenge and his charismatic presence filled the room. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and we are all enriched for having known him. We will miss our husband, Dad, Grandpa, Uncle, Brother, and Friend.
A memorial service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home, 1535 S. 12th Street, Sheboygan, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. Masks are recommended by the family and will be provided if necessary. Interment will take place in Hurley, WI in late spring 2022. Condolences may be expressed online at www.reinboldfh.com. No memorial fund is being established, instead, in honor of Gary, find someone in need and pay it forward.