Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Warren Miller
1924 - 2018
Warren Miller
1924 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1924
DIED
2018
Warren Miller Obituary
His family said in a statement that Miller died of natural causes Wednesday evening at his home on Orcas Island in Washington state.
A World War II veteran, ski racer, surfer and sailor, Miller produced more than 500 action films about a variety of outdoor activities including surfing and sailing. But he was best known for his thrill-seeking films featuring daredevil skiers barreling down breathtakingly steep slopes.
His annual ski movies served as informal kickoffs to ski season and became a rite of passage for the legions of ski bums and snowboarders who flocked to see them at movie theaters and played them on video while relaxing with drinks after tough ski days.
Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.
"Warren's legacy of adventure, freedom and humor carries on in the countless lives he touched," his wife of 30 years, Laurie Miller, said in a statement Thursday. "Warren loved nothing more than sharing his life's adventures and hearing literally every day from friends old and new about how his stories inspired others to enrich and enjoy their own lives."
Miller was born in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles, California, in 1924. He grew up during the Depression and said his family struggled to put food on the table.
According to a biography on his website, Miller bought his first camera for 39 cents when he was 12 years old. He used earnings from his newspaper route to buy his first skis and bamboo ski poles when he was 15 and took his first run at Mount Waterman near Los Angeles with his Boy Scout troop.
"I really believe in my heart that that first turn you make on a pair of skis is your first taste of total freedom, the first time in your life that you could go anywhere that your adrenaline would let you go," he told The Seattle Times in a 2010 interview.
Miller played varsity basketball at the University of Southern California and served in the Navy.
In 1946, he bought a camera for $77 and set off with his friend Ward Baker in a 1936 Buick Phaeton towing a teardrop trailer to ski destinations across the U.S., including Yosemite, Jackson Hole and Mammoth Mountain. They camped in parking lots of ski resorts, perfecting the ski bum life.
He once recalled loving the smell of rabbit frying in the silent evening while parked in Sun Valley's parking lot.
Miller launched his film career in 1950 with his first skiing film, "Deep and Light."
He headed Warren Miller Entertainment until the late 1980s when he sold it to his son, Kurt Miller. Time Inc. bought it in 2000 and later sold it. Warren Miller Entertainment It is now owned by Active Interest Media.
Miller was inducted into the U.S. Ski Hall of Fame in 1978.
Aside from his wife, Miller is survived by sons Scott and Kurt, daughter Chris and a stepson, Colin Kaufman.
Copyright © 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
65 Entries
william sr, jr, and princess minnesota
October 26, 2018
Big fans of warren miller!! God speed; amen! Peace from the black side and thanks! 3amigos out!
B Cox
July 31, 2018
Condolences to the family of this accomplished man of action. May your memories bring you joy, and comfort from our God above.
M C
February 23, 2018
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one, who will be remembered for his athletic ability and his films. I hope you find comfort and help in God during this time of mourning.
How you can show support
JoAnn Pulone
February 3, 2018
To the Miller Family,
Back in the 1940's I was a young girl about 13 years old and met him at his parents place of business in Hollywood.
I has health issues and went there for treatment.
When I heard Mr. Miller had died it brought back so many memories of his wonderful parents.
My sincere sympathy to all the Miller Family.
William Sokolich
January 31, 2018
The last time I had the pleasure to share experiences with Mr. Warren Miller was in 2008 on the occassion of Alpental's 40th. Warren did the promotional film that sold the lots that built the lifts. He was autographing an early photo of Alpental. As he autographed my photo. I mentioned that the first time I was entertained by his film was at a showing in Helena, Montana at Belmont Ski Club. Mentioning the Bell and Howell projector he was carrying. I was anxious to share an encounter I had the previous fall with patrollers from The Yellowstone Club who were also attending the American Avalanche Association meeting at Bridger Bowl. Wanting to know what it was like to patrol there. I asked and was told. " Well like anywhere else except on a powder day. When Warren Miller is here there are certain runs we have to stay of off. Mr. Miller's reply was. "IF ONLY THAT WAS TRUE.". I laughed. Miller inquired as to my age which at the time was 61. As I was leaving he took my arm in his hands, looked me in the eye and said, " YOU'VE GOT A GOOD 20 YEARS LEFT." Thanks had him many years but never enough. Thank God for putting him on this earth in my lifetime. Rest in peace next to your favorite dog.
Ross Benson
January 31, 2018
Laurie I am very sorry to hear of Warren's passing. For me he lives on through the films he made and the bliss he brought to me and millions of others. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Ross Benson, Jim and Barbara Benson's son.
Allan Jensen
January 30, 2018
A life well lived...may your energy return to this Earth!
Allan Jensen
January 30, 2018
RIP Warren. You had a calming influence on a far too excited about powder snow young man with your droll delivery. Opened up my eyes to a world of opportunities for both skiing and windsurfing/sailing.
His soul is cast to the Universe
January 29, 2018
Sorry for your loss ,Gods promise life again on paradise earth in future bring you comfort and hope . Matthew 11:25
January 29, 2018
We are saddened for the loss of a very talented man, Mr. Miller. We pray that our Heavenly Father be with his family, granting them love, peace and comfort now and in the days to come. JM
Timm Eubanks
January 29, 2018
I have great memories of getting stoked by seeing his films while he narrated them at the Pier Ave auditorium in Hermosa Beach. I opened a beer the other day when I heard he had passed with the bottle opener he gave me back in the 1970s. Fitting. Cheers! Rest in Peace. Prayers for his family.
January 29, 2018
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time now and days ahead.
January 28, 2018
With heartfelt sympathy. Please accept my deepest condolences. May you continue to cherish his precious memories together. May you find comfort in the God of all comfort to offer you comfort and to give you the strength to endure during these difficult times ahead.
A FRIEND
January 28, 2018
I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY MAY GOD COMFORT DURING THID DIFFICULT TIME.
Stephanie Wilson
January 28, 2018
May the words at 1 Cornithians 15:26 bring you and yours some comfort. Agape
D Tyler
January 28, 2018
Warren Miller was on the ski slopes, and I am sure he will really be missed, by family and friends. Sincere condolences to the Miller family at this most difficult time.
Juanita
January 28, 2018
Heartfelt condolences to the family for your great loss. May God provide the needed comfort during your time of mourning.
Mark Baker
January 28, 2018
Thank you mr. miller
January 28, 2018
To the family, I am sorry to hear the news a about your loss.
May God who "binds up the broken hearted" and comforted all who mourns" sustain your family during this challenging time. Isaiah 61:1,2
Jeff Canepa
January 28, 2018
To the Miller Family, sincerest condolences.
I recall years ago getting a call from Warren telling me to meet him in Marina Del Rey to look at a new sailboat design that had caught his eye. I arrived, we jumped aboard and we headed out the harbor. After a few hours on the bay, it was obvious that so-called new design was no match for Warrens laughter and quick humor, which together, made for an unforgettable sail.
Sail on Warren....and thanks for sharing yourself with so many.
Scott Chamberland
January 28, 2018
Rest in Peace
January 27, 2018
To the family, I am sorry to hear the news a about your loss.
May God who "binds up the broken hearted" and comforted all who mourns" sustain your family during this challenging time. Isaiah 61:1,2
January 27, 2018
I am so sorry to hear of his passing, what an amazing legacy he leaves. In a time when it sometimes seems that the world is scarier than it has been in many ways, Warrens` films were not just bringing skiing to movie audiences, they were bringing joy and showing the beauty of incredible nature settings and sending goodwill ambassadors out into the world. Yes they skied some of the most famous resorts, but they also skied some very remote and challenging non-typical ski areas as well. Warren's movie skiers were always appearing to be game to flex to whatever was required. In times of excesses in this world it is important to know if you are doing something you love well & with integrity & humor it will many times work out for you. If you have a dream "Go Get It".Thank you Warren for sharing your world with this world. Thank you Warren`s family & friends for sharing your loss & we hope it brings you comfort to know how much we appreciate all he did.
Larry Schmidt
January 27, 2018
Like thousands & thousands of fans, Warren was an inspiration to us skiers for many years! From watching every film at home & also in countless shops in CO ski country, we always felt "close" to him. We will miss him, but will always have him & his voice to turn to when we replay his movies. Godspeed, Mr. Miller. Enjoy those perfect runs!
MJH
January 27, 2018
My deepest condolences to your family during this most difficult time of coping with the loss of your beloved husband and father. There are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone so beloved. May you find comfort and peace in knowing that your loved one is in God's memory, because those who pass on are precious in his eyes. - Psalms 116:15.
January 27, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Uly & Lula
January 27, 2018
To the family, Our sincere sympathy. We pray that in the midst of your sorrow you find comfort in all the joyful memories shared and will always cherish these beautiful memories of Warren. (Romans 15:13)
Mac Mcrae
January 26, 2018
My favorite story involved warren skiing at the Yellowstone club about 2007 or so. I was skiing down a run and saw him on the right side pulled over. Warren always had a gold brown coat on when I would see him today was different. I skied over yo say hi and he looked at me and kind of laughed. He said they finally got me out of my old ski coat. He had new blue pants,boot top,matching blue waist length. He was clearly laughing and somewhat embarrassed a friend had seen him in this new look. I laughed and said youre looking great Warren!!!the last time I saw him was in the bozeman airport. He was flying back to orcas island. He was the grandest person I had ever met and I enjoyed talking to him every time I got to see him. Rest In Peace Warren. I am glad I got to know you here in Big Sky.
The Stannards
January 26, 2018
We enjoyed all of his work and lived by his adventurous quotes! Thank you for ypur life's work! Sending deepest condolences from our family to yours. Rest In Peace,
young
January 26, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
JMS
January 26, 2018
My condolences are with the family during this most difficult time. May God give you comfort and strength.
January 26, 2018
My sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Miller. He will be missed. It seems he led a full and wonder life. As you reflect on the memories please know that God will provide comfort and strength at this time. Psalms 86:17.
January 26, 2018
I am sorry for your loss. I enjoyed watching the ski movies.May the God of comfort be with your family.
P. Sparks
January 26, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Steve Hubertus
January 26, 2018
To his family. Warren helped keep alive my "adrenaline junkie"! When I became too old to get away with it, I could relive some great days with some great people through his films.
I hope he is racing God on some slope in BC.
Adrian Barnette
January 26, 2018
We'll miss you !
January 26, 2018
Do not be afraid, for I am with you.
Do not be anxious, for I am your God.
I will fortify you, yes, I will help you,
I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness.' My sincere condolence.
January 26, 2018
May your strong faith in our Lord and savior Jesus Christ ransom sacrifice bring your sad hearts some comfort during this very difficult time for your family and friends. Heartfelt condolences and prayer to you all.
John 3:16, 17:3
Stockbridge Ga
Holly Rainville
January 26, 2018
My sincere condolences to the Miller Family.. Mr. Miller , I hope you are skiing that Heavenly Powder, with all the other Greats!
January 26, 2018
What a great loss. May the God of all comfort continue to care for you and your family.
Psalms 37:11
DH
January 26, 2018
Mr.Warren Miller life was adventurous.
May the family find comfort in all the
wonderful memories they shared with
one another.
My sincere condolences to the family
friends and fans at this difficult time.
January 26, 2018
We missed warren may many fond memory of him continue to inspire friends and family during This time of grief.really sorry for your loss .ps 37:29 N.n
Linda Hoski
January 26, 2018
My Deepest Sympathy And Condolences To Warren's Family. I Grew Up Watching Warren's Film's.Always Exciting And Adventurous. Rest In Peace,Warren.....
JJ
January 26, 2018
Deepest sympathy to Miller family. Take comfort in the strength and peace that Almighty God gives.
Martha
January 26, 2018
Sorry for your loss. May you find peace and hope by trusting in God. Romans 15:13.
J
January 26, 2018
Thanks for your love one talent
May family and friends bring you comfort during these days
May our Heavenly Father grant you peace from above
Greg Cantwell
January 26, 2018
Wow. Well done Mr. Miller. Rest well knowing the millions of lives you affected in such a wonderful way. You will be missed but you work will last forever. Thank you.
January 26, 2018
My condolences to the Miller and extended families for the loss of your dear husband, father and friend ~ Warren. May you continue to be blessed with his memory and legacy and may your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times you shared together as you celebrate a life well lived (Daniel 12:13) ~ Linda, Queens, NY
January 26, 2018
Ms. Miller, Scott, Kurt, Chris, Colin, Family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your dear loved one. Our condolences and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. Cherish his precious memories. God is our refuge and strength.-PS.46:1
January 26, 2018
I am sorry for your loss. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you as God carries you through these grief-filled days. He will support you as you throw your anxieties on him.
( 1 Peter 5:6-7)
Aloyisus Fornortener
January 26, 2018
I'm 66 years old. My then girlfriend had me watch a "ski bum" film with her in 1972 when we were 20, and the next day I'm with her at Breckenridge in Colorado learning to ski. I never looked back. 20 years later, I even skied a bump on the ground in central Ohio (Bellefontaine ?) during a business trip there and had fun!
I thank Warren Miller for that "ski bum" movie my girlfriend had me watch. If not...I don't know if I would have ever learned to ski as I lived in warm southern climates most of my life.
Thank you, Mr. Miller. Have fun up there on those slopes that God created for you after you arrived there !
January 25, 2018
I'm 62 years old. Pretty much grew up with his films. I'll miss knowing he's not still here. But Will always be here in all the skiers hearts around the World
Patrick
January 25, 2018
If a person's stature is measured by how many people's lives were touched in a positive way Warren Miller was the king of skiing and bigger than life itself. I thank Warren Miller for sharing his world from the lens!
Charlie Gregory
January 25, 2018
I am sorry to hear about Warren Miller. My condolence for the Miller family. I enjoyed the ski films. I hope your enjoying the slopes in Heaven Warren !!!
Jeanne
January 25, 2018
I was introduced to your thrilling downhill ski movies in the 1980s. It was an annual event for us. I can still hear your voice and your sense of humor! Thank you for your service to our country and your contribution to the world of sports.
Afrian Barnette
January 25, 2018
We'll miss you !
Bob Raymond
January 25, 2018
Warren,
You were an inspiration to countless ski fanatics like me. And, as you always said when closing your movies,"And if you don't do it this year you will only be another year older when you do". God Speed.
Adrian Barnette
January 25, 2018
We'll miss you !
A N
January 25, 2018
So sorry to hear about your loss. May you have peace knowing that Almighty God will swallow up death for ever, He will wipe out tears from all faces forever we look forward to seeing that day
Harry Simpson
January 25, 2018
Godspeed Warren, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Fair winds and following seas sailor.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
A Caring Neighbor
January 25, 2018
My heartfelt condolences and prayers for the Miller family. Warren was truly an amazing and compassionate husband & father. He will be truly missed. May God grant solace during this most challenging time. With Love & Prayers
Showing 1 - 65 of 65 results
Make a Donation
in Warren Miller's name
How to support Warren's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Warren Miller's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored