Carl Ray Miller

Jun. 11, 1936 - Feb. 3, 2016

SOUTH BEND - Carl Ray Miller, age 79, of South Bend, passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at Sanctuary at Holy Cross. Carl was born June 11, 1936 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Elton and Virginia (Johnson) Miller. He was a graduate of Riley High School, class of 1954. He later enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving from 1959-1962 before being honorably discharged. Carl was employed for over 35 years as a fuel cell operator at Uniroyal Corporation in Mishawaka before his retirement.

Surviving are his children, Angela (Jason) Gwinn of Osceola, Shonna (Bill) Sann of Ashland, Wisconsin and Jonathon Miller of Elkhart. Also surviving are his life partner of 22 years, Patricia Rhoades of Wakarusa, and two grandchildren, Nicolas Gwinn and a step-granddaughter, Gabriella Gwinn. He was preceded in death by his sister, Norma Jean Elkins and his friend and ex-wife, Jean Hayden Miller.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 pm Saturday, February 27, 2016 at Osceola First General Baptist Church, 11101 McKinley Highway, Osceola, Indiana 46561. Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Carl was a longtime member of the Elkhart Moose Lodge #599. He loved to collect classic cars, especially 1956-1957 Chevy's and belonged to the Michiana Chevy Club and the Elkhart Vintage Auto Club (EVAC) for many years. He also attended St. Paul United Methodist in Elkhart, Trinity Lutheran Church in Elkhart, and later attended Granger Community Church. He enjoyed making people laugh, & his laugh was contagious. He was a caring, family man who enjoyed helping everyone. He was an animal lover and rescuer, loved to work on his 1957 Chevy, and spend time with his family. He enjoyed dining out and watching movies, especially old comedies. Everyone who knew him would agree it was a privilege to have met him. He will be missed by many.

In his memory, donations may be made to his family. To leave an online condolence for his family, or to sign the online guest register, please visit our website at www.wmzfh.com. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/southbendtribune/obituary.aspx?n=carl-ray-miller&pid=177636315&fhid=8881&eid=sp_ommatch#sthash.NNzDTgrf.dpuf