Charles J. Miller

Charles J. Miller, 94, died early Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at The Inn at Bear Trail in Lewis Center under hospice care.

He was born August 1, 1929 in Toledo to the late Edwin and Marcella (Pauken) Miller and graduated from Whitmer High School. He attended the University of Toledo, the first of his family to do so, earning a bachelor’s in chemical engineering and, later, a master’s in industrial engineering. Charlie married the former Geraldine Pipes on December 18, 1952 and they raised their sons in Bellevue where Charlie worked for General Electric before transferring to the Bucyrus Lamp Plant in the mid-80s and later retired.

Charlie will be remembered for his steady and reliable spirit, who believed in hard work and having the confidence to tackle any project. He was a devoted caretaker of his beloved Geraldine and saw that his sons were provided for and able to complete their college educations. Charlie was devoted to his communities as past president of the Bellevue Lions Club and treasurer of St Paul’s Episcopal Church. After moving to Bucyrus, Charlie as an active member of the Kiwanis Club, serving one term as president and as the club’s secretary for several years. He also volunteered at Bucyrus Community Hospital, served on the Council on Aging Board, and helped prepare taxes as a VITA volunteer.

At home, Charlie took meticulous care of his home and landscaping, enjoyed keeping a nice garden, and was the family cook using countless recipes handed down by his German ancestors. He and Geraldine also liked to travel with road trips to California and New England being especially memorable. He golfed in a league, collected stamps and coins, and dabbled in photography.

Charlie is survived by his bride of 71 years, Geraldine Miller; sons, Mark (Mary Kay) Miller, Kent (Phyllis) Miller, and Scott (DeAnne) Miller; five grandchildren; three great grandchildren, and sister, Helen Spitznagel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by stepmother, Stella Miller, great grandson, Charles Larson. and siblings, Richard Miller and Florence Heintschel.

Services will be held on Saturday, March 23 at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Geraldine and family will receive friends from 11am – 12:55 pm and his funeral will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Vickie Doyle officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial donations are encouraged to be made payable to Bucyrus Kiwanis Club and will be accepted through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on the guestbook.