Robert Edwin Miller's Obituary
Robert E. “Bob” Miller, 88, died peacefully in his own bed in Broken Arrow, OK on September 13, 2012. He was born at home in Webb City, MO on May 16, 1924 to Troy and Mayme Miller. His father was an entrepreneur serving in many positions, most notably as the owner of Miller Tobacco Company in Webb City. His mother was a homemaker and raised 5 sons. Bob was the 4th of the 5 “Miller Boys”. Bob served in the Armed Forces during World War II. He was trained as a radio operator, a tank driver, and his favorite assignment as a ball turret gunner on a B-17. Bob attended Joplin Junior College, the University of Tulsa and graduated with a B.A in Accounting from Kansas State Teachers College (now called Pittsburgh State University). He met his future wife, Shirley Blankenship, while they were both attending Joplin Junior Colege. He worked at Blue Cross & Blue Shield for more than 20 years. Bob loved helping people. He was very active in volunteer activities throughout his adult life. He served as Treasurer and Board Member at Broken Arrow Neighbors for 25+ years. He also served as Tax Preparer and Volunteer Coordinator for the Broken Arrow section of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance for 20 years. He also volunteered on many different committees and boards related to church, Boy Scouts, Oxley Nature Preserve and the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Credit Union. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife of 63 years, Shirley; brother, Don Miller of Joplin, MO; son, Rick and wife, Lila Miller of Tulsa; daughter, Robin Leach of Broken Arrow; 6 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his father, Troy Franklin Miller; mother, Mayme Helm Miller; older brothers, Wes Miller of Tucson, AZ, Max Miller of Bartlesville, OK and Jim Miller of Joplin, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Broken Arrow Neighbors in honor of Mr. Miller. A Memorial Service will be held 10:00 AM Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel.
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