Donald Miller

Donald “Don” Miller, age 88, passed away unexpectedly on May 3, 2026, at home while doing one of the things he loved most—watching the Brewers.

Don was born on March 25, 1938, in Neenah to Edmund and Wilma (Gutkenecht) Miller. The oldest of four boys, Don, shared many stories of his adventurous childhood, especially summer days spent away from home all day with friends. He loved swimming and was known as the “clown diver” at the Neenah Pool. A talented athlete, Don excelled in football and baseball as a Neenah Rocket and was affectionately nicknamed “Tubby” and “Golden Toe” by his classmates.

Don met the love of his life, Sandy Roou, while he was a junior at Neenah High School and she was a freshman newly arrived from Portland, Oregon. Sandy often said she fell for him because he was such a nice guy. After graduating in 1956, Don received several football offers from colleges across the country but chose UW–Madison to stay close to Sandy. He played as a kicker and lineman for the Badgers for one year before transferring to Ripon College to be even closer to her. The two were married in 1958 at St. Margaret Mary Church in Neenah, beginning a remarkable 67-year love story.

Don began his career as a police officer with the Neenah Police Department, a role he was immensely proud of. He often shared stories of foot chases around town and even a memorable encounter with a “rabid squirrel” at Roosevelt School—whether true or not, it always made for a great story. After several years and with two young sons at home, Don transitioned to a new career at Kimberly-Clark, where he worked for 38 years until his retirement. During that time, he and Sandy welcomed two more children, completing their family of three boys and one girl.

Don was a devoted father who never missed a game, activity, or recital. Though a quiet man, his words always carried meaning and came straight from the heart.

He was deeply involved in his community, coaching little league and soccer teams and forming lasting friendships through the Paper Valley Soccer Club. Among those friends was a group they humorously called the “Duck Carving Society,” despite spending most of their time golfing and playing poker. Their annual summer golf trips to the Upper Peninsula were among Don’s favorite memories. He was also a founding member of the weekly Wednesday morning “BORED” breakfast group, something he looked forward to every week.

In retirement, Don worked part-time as a driver for Bergstrom Automotive. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage—often relying on duct tape for repairs—and loved being outdoors, especially riding his bike, which he continued until last summer.

Above all, Don cherished being a grandfather. He was blessed with 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and loved spending time with each of them, whether attending Brewers games, dyeing Easter eggs, carving pumpkins, or taking walks to watch the trains. He never missed a grandchild’s event and was incredibly proud of them all.

In recent years, Don had slowed down but remained strong and resilient. He faithfully attended dialysis for nearly three years without complaint and continued to care for Sandy, taking her on daily drives and coffee outings. Their 67 years of marriage stand as a true testament to enduring love.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his children, Jeff (Janice) Miller, Mark (Sheree) Miller, Brad Miller, and Michelle (Matt) Dunning; his grandchildren, Jordan (Annmarie) Miller, Joshua Liv Miller, Taylor (Tyler) Allen, Kaelyn (Ryan) Cassidy, Jacob (Hailey) Miller, Nicholas Miller, Haley and Hannah Miller, Addison Miller, Drew Dunning, and Gabe Dunning; and his great-grandchildren, Caleb and Ryan Miller, Nora and Lincoln Allen, and Davie and Brody Cassidy. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Miller and Mike (Mary) Miller, and sister-in-law Mary Jane Miller.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmund and Wilma Miller and his brother, Dick Miller.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the friends at the Highlands at Mahler Park Apartments, where Don and Sandy made their home for 14 years, and especially to Pat and Shelby Neitzel for their kindness, support, and many meals over the years. We would also like to thank Pastor Kim for being there to comfort Sandy.

Dad, we know you were tired, and now you can rest. We will take good care of Mom. We love you.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9, at First Presbyterian Church, 200 S. Church Street, Neenah, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to consider making a donation to Future Neenah in memory of Don Miller. He loved his hometown so much.