My friend George Miller died this week. He lost his one year battle with cancer. Ever since I learned of his illness, I prayed daily that the cancer would leave his body. But, God’s plan won out over mine.
I am writing about this, even though it is very personal, because George was a quiet and humble man. But he was also a very great man. He embodied what America is really all about.
George was my wife Rhonda’s uncle so I came to be “related” to him thru marriage. From the first time I met him, he accepted me as part of the family. George loved to hunt, fish and shoot and we spent many hours together talking about or actually engaging in our shared interest of guns and shooting.
George grew up in southwest Virginia, served his country in the Navy and then worked for over 30 years for the railroad. He and his wife Sandra were high school sweethearts. Together they raised and married off two children. Two weeks before his death their first grandchild was born. Fortunately, George was able to see and hold his granddaughter before he passed.
I always knew George to be a humble man. He worked hard, was honest and did not expect any bail-out from the government. He loved to cook and tell stories, mostly true stories but some probably with some exaggeration. But that is OK because I always enjoyed just listening to him. He was in his element in the outdoors and in the kitchen and would always help you any way he could.
He believed in hard work, personal responsibility and no excuses. That is how he raised his children. He stayed busy in retirement and always seemed to be on the move.
The last time I saw him was at his daughter Nickie’s wedding last August. That is how I will always remember him. He was not one to be comfortable in a suit but that day he looked so distinguished and his pride as father of the bride was evident.
George was a true American. A veteran, husband, father and Grand Dad.
I cannot imagine the grief his wife and children are experiencing and the void in their lives that will never be filled. I know that there is a hole in my heart that will never be repaired.
I cannot understand why we lose such good people at such a young age. He was 64.
So, I pray that God will hold the soul of my friend George Miller in his loving arms.
George, may you rest in peace. We all miss you and always will.
