Jeff Miller 1970-2016
Jeff Miller, 46, of Topeka, passed away Friday, Aug. 19, 2016, at Lake Perry.
Jeff was born June 8, 1970, in Topeka, the son of Jim and Sharon Miller. He graduated from Seaman High School in 1988 and the University of Kansas in 1995. He then received his Master’s Degree from Baker University in 2003. He served in the Kansas Air National Guard.
For the past 12 years, he served as the Human Resources Manager at Banner Creek in Holton.
Jeff married Martha Cordell on Oct. 11, 2003, in Topeka. She survives.
Other survivors include his parents of Topeka; sister, Lori Miller, Pasadena, Calif.; brother in-laws Paul Cordell and Robert (Casey) Cordell; sister-in-laws Sarah (Leroy) Haberberger, Alice (Bill) Evans, Mary (Brett) Mook and Laura Cordell (Michael Lobash); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
Jeff lived every day of his life to the fullest. He was always ready for a new challenge and adventure. Jeff obtained the rank of Eagle Scout and used those skills throughout his life. He grew up in a family that appreciated outdoor activities. This was evident as Jeff enjoyed entertaining family and friends in sharing his passion for the lake by sailing, ski boating, fishing, scuba diving and teaching his nieces and nephews how to appreciate nature.
He received his pilot’s license in September 1990 and continued to fly for several years. When he wasn’t flying airplanes, he was building model ones and was a member of the Foundation for Aeronautical Education. Jeff and Martha enjoyed entertaining friends and family in their home. Cooking was an important part of their life together. Jeff took great joy in lovingly preparing meals for his family, friends and co-workers. He competed in various BBQ competitions with his best friend, Steve.
In recent years, Jeff had restored their sailboat and a vintage RV for him and Martha to enjoy. Jeff was a member of Perry Yacht Club and proudly served on the Board of Governors. Jeff was passionate about helping others in this world. He volunteered as a Big Brother, in addition to him and Martha being foster parents to two children. In recent years, he used his gift of cooking by preparing a meal each month for the families at Ronald McDonald House.
Jeff loved Martha dearly and they enjoyed every day together. They were able to visit such places as Canada, the Caribbean, England and other places in the U.S. Jeff also loved spending time with their beloved Boxers, Louis and Otis.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel in Topeka.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House or a charity of the donor’s choice.
To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
