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Don Miller
Don Miller, 93, passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2024. The fourth was one of his very favorite days of the year, often having gatherings at his home on this special day. He continued the tradition that his mother started, of the Scottville Clown Band playing at Miller’s Lakeside Motel after the parade in Ludington, which continues today.
Donald Verne Miller was born in Ludington on September 13, 1930 to parents Verne and Goldyn (Beals) Miller. He grew up at the first motor court in Ludington on South US 31 and later the first motel in Ludington, built by his parents in 1947. Don spent his life in Ludington or in Coral Gables, Fla. and Naples, Fla. There were also many trips with his wife and friends to several tropical islands.
Don met his wife of 68 years, Penny Coolman, at Ludington High School, where he graduated in 1949. They enjoyed a long courtship marrying on October 27, 1955.
Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1951. He served four years of military service as a mechanic on plane engines and propellers. Much of his time was served in Saudi Arabia. After returning to Ludington, Don joined his parents in the lodging business at Miller’s Lakeside Motel on West Ludington Avenue.
One of Don’s biggest passions was his love of antique cars. He attended many local and regional tours, parades, and meet events throughout the country, receiving many trophies for the autos that he restored to perfection. He was known for his Packards, Buicks, Cadillacs, Model A, Rolls Royce, and Jaguar.
Don loved listening to blues and jazz live and at home. Model planes and trains, boating along with golf were his favorite hobbies. He was a member of Lincoln Hills Golf Club where, along with many friends, he was known to dance “The Don”.
Don shared life with many true friends including neighborhood friends, school friends, Air Force buddies, car event companions, the “Breakfast Crew”, the “Wednesday night guys” and so many others.
Don leaves behind his wife Penny, one son Dale Miller, two daughters and families:
Faith (Kevin) Richardson. Grandchildren, Kevin II (Luly) Richardson and Estee (Jon) Loga. Four great-grandchildren.
Jyl Miller. Brad Saxton. Grandchildren, Torin Saxton and Chesna Saxton.
Sister-in-law, Mimi (Harry) Voss. Nieces, Ann (Brad Varmo) Voss and Liz Voss (Dave Markasky).
Cousins including Charlene (Dave) Borgeson.
Those who wish to remember Don with a memorial contribution are asked to consider Community Cats TNR, P.O. Box 384 Ludington 49431.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
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