David George Miller

David George Miller passed away on June 9, 2013 at home. Family will receive friends on Thursday, June 13, 2013, 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the funeral home. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty Magee Miller, sons; Larry and wife Linda Miller of Bakersfield, CA, Roger and wife Annie Miller of Mansfield, TX, grandsons; David and Steven, Miller all of Mansfield, TX, and Michael and Brian Miller of Bakersfield, CA, sister; Linda Kehias of Pana, IL, sister-in-law; Elaine and husband Anthony Hightower, nephew Jonathan and wife Amanda Hightower all of Lewisville, TX. Along with many other extended family members and countless friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Leland & Dorothy Miller and his nephew, Eric Matheny. David was born June 19, 1933 to Leland and Dorothy Miller in Pana, Illinois. Growing up on a farm helped develop his strong work ethic, which would bear fruit the rest of the life. David graduated from the University of Illinois in 1955 moving to Abilene, Texas to work for Pan American Production Company. Dave met the love of his life, Betty Jean Magee and married her August 25, 1956. They moved to Midland where he spent the most of his working career. His professional career included stints with Marathon Oil Company, Pennzoil Oil Company, Texas Oil and Gas. Dave started working as an independent geologist in 1976. He was affiliated with WTGS, SEPM, AAPG and SIPES. In later years he collaborated with Bill Mueller and Don Page on oil activities. Dave and Dirk Deiterich partnered on a myriad of business ventures for over twenty years. Dave was an active member of the YMCA from 1978 to June 2012 participating in various physical fitness classes. In June 2012, Dave took two of his grandsons to the YMCA within one month of his cancer diagnosis to a vigorous Spinning Class. Both boys left surprised at his stamina and level of fitness. His hobby was genealogy, which he began at the beginning of the computer age. After many years of research Dave discovered that his wife, Betty, was his 8th cousin. Dave joined the Midland Genealogical Society and eventually served as the Webmaster. During his term as webmaster he taught various computer genealogy classes, designed, coded and maintained their webpage. In addition to his service for the MGS, Dave and his wife, Betty, were active volunteers at Midland Petroleum Museum since 1975. His family describes their father and grandfather as a family man who valued honor, integrity, and loyalty. He demonstrated his work ethic throughout his life and was a great role model. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com