Nancy (Koval) Miller

Nancy Elizabeth (Koval) Miller, 84, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, in Surprise, Arizona. Born on October 21, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, Nancy lived a life filled with love, faith, and dedication to her family and community.

Nancy's early years were spent in Michigan, where she attended Southfield High School before graduating from Grand Haven High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Ferris State University. It was during her time at Ferris State that she met the love of her life, Martin "Marty" Miller. Their story began when Marty rode his horse near campus—Nancy often joked that she fell in love with the horse first. This chance meeting blossomed into a beautiful marriage that spanned 62 wonderful years.

Nancy and Marty built a life together rooted in faith and family. They raised two children: David (Cathy) Miller of Alto, Michigan, and Mary (Bob) Kromer of Big Rapids, Michigan. Nancy was also a proud grandmother to Joseph (Alli) Kromer of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Jordan (Francisco) Vasquez-Kromer of Big Rapids, Michigan; and Andrew (Amanda) Kromer of Lake City, Michigan. Her joy only grew with the arrival of her great-grandchildren Mailen and Elio Vasquez-Kromer. She cherished her sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and many close friends.

Professionally, Nancy dedicated over 30 years to Hackley Hospital in Muskegon, Michigan, as a laboratory technologist. Her leadership extended beyond her work as she served as president of the hospital union. Nancy also made significant contributions to education as president of the Oakridge Public Schools school board.

Faith was central to Nancy's life. She was an active member of several Catholic parishes throughout her lifetime: Our St. Thomas Parish and Our Lady of Grace churches in Muskegon; St. Catherine's Catholic Church in Ravenna; and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Sun City West, Arizona. Her spiritual journey took her on pilgrimages to the Holy Lands, Medjugorje, and Mexico City—experiences that deepened her devotion to Jesus Christ.

Nancy's passions extended far beyond her professional and spiritual commitments. She loved traveling and exploring the mountains—a place where she found peace and joy—and spending time near lakes or with horses. Her adventures would not only include her husband but also many times her best friend, Rosemarie Vandermolen whom Nancy would comment she could "get in a lot of trouble with Rosemarie." For over 30 years, she split her time between Michigan and Arizona with Marty by her side. She adored animals and found immense happiness visiting dog parks with her daughter-in-law just to pet the dogs.

Her laughter was infectious; she had a gift for brightening any room she entered. Nancy believed that a baby's laughter was the best sound in the world—a sentiment that reflected her boundless love for life and others. She never hesitated to help those around her or share stories about Jesus with anyone who would listen.

Nancy is predeceased by her parents Frank and Mary Koval; her sister Kay Miller; sister-in-law Catherine Miller and brother-in-law Raymond Miller. Though their loss was deeply felt during her lifetime, Nancy's enduring faith provided comfort.

Nancy's legacy is one of love—love for God, for family, for friends, and for all living creatures. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her to live with kindness, faithfulness, and joy.

May Nancy Elizabeth (Koval) Miller rest in eternal peace surrounded by God's light and love. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.