WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Dean A. Miller, age 59, of Sturgis, died on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born May 21, 1964 in Sturgis, a son of Edward and Katie (Borkholder) Miller. Dean graduated from Mendon High School in 1982 and received his Associates degree from Glen Oaks Community College. He later received his teaching certificate from Goshen College and special education certification from Grand Valley State University.
On September 5, 1987 he married Darla Gingerich in Zurich, Ontario, Canada.
Dean was a teacher at Pathfinder Education Center in Centreville for 8 years retiring in June of 2023. He previously worked as a teacher and administrator in elementary education. Dean had volunteered for the Mennonite Board of Missions at Bethlehem Day Care in Richland, Virginia and in Orrville, Ohio working with deaf children.
Dean was a member of Grace Sturgis, and an avid Detroit Lions football fan. Dean was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride being “PaPa Bear”.
Surviving are his wife Darla Miller, Sturgis, son Caleb (Natasha) Miller, White Pigeon, daughter Sherese (fiance Eric Heichelheim) Miller, Denver, CO, grandchildren Noah and Hannah Miller, sister Carol (Randy) Rice, Sturgis, brother Doyle (Rhonda) Miller, Centreville, several nieces and nephews, and his dog Buddy.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Per his request, cremation has taken place. Relatives and friends will be received Thursday August 31, from 4 to 8 pm at Grace Sturgis, 300 Timothy Dr., Sturgis. A Celebration of Life will be held 10 am Friday, Sept. 1, at the Church with Pastor Luke Eicher officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Special Olympics. To sign Dean’s online guest book and leave a message for the family, visit www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
