Gene Miller "Miller the Driller"
July 22, 2015
Eugene “Gene” B. Miller
Pleasant Hill
Eugene Blair Miller, 85, was born July 28, 1929, in Sioux City, Iowa. He died Wednesday, July 22, 2015, in his home in Pleasant Hill, surrounded by his loving family.
He started in the construction business at the age of 17, in 1948. He was founder and Chairman of the “Bored” of Miller the Driller, and served the underground construction industry throughout the country for 64 years. Gene’s love of his work, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his ability to solve problems leaves a legacy in the trenchless industry.
Gene was a member of Gideons International since 1970, and was active in the ministry for 45 years. In his retirement, he enjoyed spending time in his woodworking shop.
He married Martha Peterson on January 6, 1950. Together, they played Santa and Mrs. Claus for 50 years. They brought joy to the greater Des Moines community for three generations of children. His enthusiasm for sharing Christ with others was an important part of his role as Santa. Gene retired as Santa in 2011.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Martha Lillian (Peterson) Miller; daughters, Kristine L. Young (Bob), Debra A. Sovereign (Steve), and Penny L. Bellnap (Dave); grandchildren, Brandon Eugene Young, Karey Lynn (Young) Kyer (Kenton), Felicia R. Ramirez, Corey Bellnap (Jessica), Dawn Renáe (Bellnap) Jones (Bob Franzen), Amber R. (Bellnap) Myers (Jeff), Jordan R. Sovereign, and Jeremy T. Sovereign; great-grandchildren, Dakota Wade Ramirez, Connor Eugene Young, Marisa Lynn Young, Devin Brooke Jones, Dezi Rae Jones, Gabe Alan Myers, Maxx Alan Myers, Savannah Lynn Kyer, Talon Robert Kyer, and Ellie Bellnap; as well as many nieces, nephews, and family members that were close to him, along with a lifetime of friends.
Gene was preceded in death by his mother, Dathane Naylor; his step-father, Clyde Naylor; aunt and uncle, Blanche “Bea” Christian and Clarence “Bingo” Christian; and his grandfather, Archie Miller.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 24, 2015 at Oakwood United Methodist Church, 400 NE 56th Street, Pleasant Hill. Funeral service will be 12:00 p.m. Saturday, July 25, also at the church, with private family burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill.
In memory of Gene, memorials may be directed to Gideons International, Oakwood United Methodist Church, AGC of Iowa Foundation, or Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Department.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Rosalea Stanton
07/22/2015
I didn't know Gene but,
One summer day many, many years ago there was a Pizza House on 30th and University. Gene and Martha were there eating and a little girl about 3 years old saw Gene and she yell Santa and went running to him and he picked her up and let her believe he was Santa. It was one of the neatest things I ever saw and I have repeated the story many time. I will always remember Gene because of his kindness to that little girl.
Kathy Wigg Elverum
07/22/2015
I will never forget the generosity of your Dad for the kids of Pleasant Hills, making sure we had a safe place to enjoy winter ice skating outside his shop. He always had to stove going in the shop to make sure we could warm up and go outside again. He is with the Lord and my Grandpa & Grandma Wigg. Love to the family at this time of passing.
John & Marla Rehder
07/22/2015
Our prayers and our hearts are with you, as you mourn Mr.Millers passing, and celebrate his life.
Pat and Ann (Leeper) Brannen
07/22/2015
Praying the Lord will give you peace as go through this difficult time.
I've fond memories of Gene and you, Martha, while growing up in Pleasant Hill.
Blessings,
Pat and Ann Brannen
Jean Merrifield
07/22/2015
Martha,
Sorry to hear that Gene has passed on. Have many memories of him at Galilee. He will be remembered for years for his good work.
Donna Marshall, Debra Marshall Mallek
07/22/2015
Mom and I were very sorry to hear of Gene's passing. Mom has told me a few stories about him and how much she enjoyed him. Our Prayers are with you. Debra
Dianne Trout
07/22/2015
Very sorry to hear of Gene's passing. He will be greatly missed. Many people will savor wonderful memories of him. My prayers are with you.