NORWICH – David A. Miller, 88, of Norwich, died on Sept. 20, 2012, at Chenango Memorial Hospital with family by his side.
Dave was born on March 12, 1924, at Chenango Memorial Hospital, the only child of David J. and Clara P. (Hall) Miller. He graduated from Norwich High School with the class of 1942. In high school, he was recognized as an American Legion Boys State Senator, 1941, and the Chi Alpha, Norwich chapter, for outstanding scholarship and leadership. Dave also lettered in football and track and field. He received several awards for athletic achievement, set some school records and remained active throughout his life.
Dave loved the outdoors and was an avid skier, hiker and camper. He hiked many miles of the Finger Lakes Trails. Dave also took great pride in his ability to occasionally hurdle the neighborhood fences. In the early years of the Norwich YMCA and Y camp, Dave volunteered many hours working on equipment. In later years, he became an active member of the YMCA, enjoying morning walks around the track and making great new friends.
After graduating high school, Dave attended Cortland State with the goal of becoming a P.E. teacher and coach. His studies were disrupted with the onset of World War II and after enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Force. Dave was stationed at Pinellas Army Airfield near St. Petersburg, FL, and was honorably discharged in 1946.
Before his service ended with the military, Dave married the only true love of his life, Carol, in 1945 in Norwich, who survives.
Early in his work career, Dave was employed by Velvet Ice Cream (later known as Borden’s Ice Cream) as a refrigeration expert. He also worked for Conron’s Plumbing and Heating, and Ellinwood’s Auto Parts.
David was well known in the community for various volunteer efforts. He served as president of the Penguin Peak Ski Club, was a docent at the Chenango County Historical Society, and Community Food Pantry.
Dave and Carol hand-built a log cabin in Chenango County where many events have been held and memories made. Dave was a most entertaining story-teller who could keep his listeners mesmerized for hours. He also loved music and had a song for every occasion. He had countless friends of all ages and will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
Dave was adored by his wife and his entire family, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. In addition to his wife, Carol, Dave is survived by his children, Eric Miller and his wife, Lane, of Berthoud, CO, Connie Kane and her husband, Mike, of Durango, CO, Judith Smith and her husband, Tim, of Lakewood, CO, Nancy Frey and her husband, David, of Philippi, WV, Shirley Fazio and her husband, Mark, of Norwich, and Karen Miller and George Gallegos of Parker, CO. Eighteen grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren also survive.
A memorial service and celebration of Dave’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice in Dave’s name.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Wilson Funeral Home. To leave a message of condolence with the family, please visit: www.wilsonfh.com.