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BORN
1938
DIED
2017
Lloyd Miller Obituary
Des Moines
Teacher and musician, Lloyd J. Miller, 78, died on July 18, 2017 in Des Moines, Iowa.
Lloyd was born in Duluth, MN on December 17, 1938, where he grew up until moving to Madison, WI through high school. An abundantly curious, deeply-principled, optimistic, generous soul, Lloyd lived and loved his life fully. He especially enjoyed riding his motorcycle, traveling to the Southwest and national parks, gambling in Las Vegas, fishing and camping, passionately debating politics, celebrating special occasions with family, and spending time with close friends.
Lloyd served in the Navy then attended the University of Wisconsin where he received a Bachelors then a Masters in Ibero-American studies. He taught Spanish and anthropology at Kankakee Community College in Illinois (1968-70), and Des Moines Area Community College (1970-2000), spending eight years as DMACC's director of social and behavioral sciences division (1974-82).
His anthropological career included graduate work studying the Otomí of Huixquilucan, Mexico in 1963, and independent field work with the Yucatán Mayans of Chan Kom, Mexico in 1990. He was editor of the newsletter-cum-journal, Teaching Anthropology: SACC Notes, for the Society for Anthropology in Community Colleges, a section of the American Anthropological Association (1991-2014). He conducted various tours of Mexico, culminating in 1989 in what he deemed "the educational highlight of my career": a Fulbright-Hayes Group Studies Abroad grant in conjunction with the University of Naucalpan, Des Moines' sister city, guiding seventeen teachers on a six-week educational tour of Mexico. Of twenty-one selections in The Tao of Anthropology (2008), his "The Accidental Anthropologist" was the only submission written by a community college professor.
From the age of fifteen, Lloyd was a professional saxophonist and clarinetist. Belonging to the American Federation of Musicians, Local 75, he performed jazz, classical, and big band dance for over forty years throughout central Iowa.
He is survived by his children: Sam Miller, Laura Sparks (George Sparks); stepchildren: Erin Drinnin (Jason Jones), Joel Drinnin (Amanda Drinnin); grandchildren: Nathan, Toby, Mabyn, Jade, Beatrice, and Owen; and companion: Mary Beth Wilk. He is preceded in death by parents Phil and Helen Miller, wife Toby Miller, and wife Beverly Drinnin. A memorial service will be held at Temple B'nai Jeshurun, 5101 Grand Avenue, Des Moines at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 23rd.
Among many organizations, Lloyd passionately supported the Cutaneous Lymphoma Foundation. In lieu of flowers, please donate to causes close to your hearts.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lloyd Miller
Sponsored by the Des Moines Register.
Ari
July 18, 2024
God bless you, always, Lloyd. You touched so many lives and I am forever thankful that you taught me kindness and wisdom. ~Ari
Nancy
October 23, 2023
Lloyd, I was thinking about you and decided to see what you were up to. I found you here and thought, "I never got the chance to tell you"...You were/are an exceptional human being and an incredible instructor. I was really blessed, as were so many others, to be able to take a class taught by you. You taught me on several levels and it´s all still in my heart. God bless you and I will see you soon.
Natalia Barcelata Roca
August 27, 2021
Una excelente, persona, amigo casi como hermano de mi papá Rubén Barcelata Monterrey, amigos por.as.de.40 años. Una gran tristeza ahora quee. Entero que falleció. En 1997 nos invitó a la universidad donde. Daba clases, para participar con pláticas, mi papá llevó pinturas y mi mamá tocó. El piano
Conocí a Sam, ojalá y pudiera entablar comunicación con Sam.
Dejó mi correo
[email protected]
Susan Wininger
July 14, 2021
I always hold dear the memories of Cousin Lloyd. He was such a special person in my life. I look at his picture often and always smile back at him. He is forever on my mind and in my heart.
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Susan Wininger
July 15, 2020
Ive had a note on my table for 3 weeks - Lloyd-July 18th. Always a date to remember. I think of Lloyd so very often and view his picture on my cell phone. The picture I cherish most is the one of him on his bicycle as a child. He had that big smile on his face that stayed with him all of his life. I truly miss my dear cousins visits and correspondence. My love to all of his family.
Susie
Homer D Hill
July 14, 2020
He was a great musician and human being.
Chuck Ellenbaum
August 9, 2017
The world is a bit colder and darker with Lloyd's death. He was a warm friend who enjoyed being with others and telling tales. I met lloyd in the 1970s when a bunch of us were forming the Society for Anthropology in Community Colleges. He took a leadership role early and helped make SACC a reality. I liked him a lot. He had an easy humor and warm personality. He was always kind with a smile on his face. I miss him a lot. Go in peace Lloyd.
Maken's Guide and a map, and pesos, prominently displayed in my home.
Tim Facto
July 30, 2017
Tim Facto
July 27, 2017
To the family of Lloyd: I wanted to speak to you in person but had previous commitment Sunday. I had Lloyd at DMACC in the fall of 1973, barely 18 yrs. old, and quite a history of trouble. He immediately resonated with me and I saw the world differently for the first time in my life. We were on quarters, not semesters, and after 2 quarters of "A" caliber work I decided to head to Mexico. I got Maken's guide to Mexican train travel (Lloyd's recommendation) and tried to cross the border listing Oaxaca as my primary destination. I was so green the Mexican authorities would not grant me more than a one-day visa. Undeterred I studied with Lloyd and on my own until 1980 when I began a life long love affair with Mexico, thanks to Lloyd Miller. I've been to every state in Mexico except Baja California and spent significant time in Quintana Roo, Yucatán, and Oaxaca. Traveled by train and bus, crossing the border at 4 different locations as well as flying in.
I'd see Lloyd around Des Moines from time to time and always thanked him for getting me going to Mexico. Understand, I can't remember one other prof from my 2yr degree at DMACC. But just writing about Lloyd still stirs my enthusiasm.
Tim Facto
DM, Ia.
July 25, 2017
We were deeply saddened to learn of Lloyd's death. He was a great friend and will be sorely missed It was always a pleasure to spend time with him, especially the many hours (George) spent with him playing music, fishing and solving the problems of the day. Our sincere condolences are with all of you at this difficult time.
George and Sandra Mosley
Fife, WA
Susan Wininger
July 23, 2017
Dear Sam and Laura,
I'm sorry I was unable to attend the memorial service for Lloyd, but he would have understood my circumstances. I know it was a beautiful memorial. I will always cherish the wonderful memories we shared growing up together, and keep him close in my heart.
His loving cousin,
Judy Rucker
July 23, 2017
Dear Laura and Sam,
Your Dad was a kind and generous friend. He was such a scholar, musician and had a great sense of wonder and humor.
Mary, Michael, Mark and I send our condolences to you and your family on such a great loss.
Much love,
Judy Rucker
Morgan Campos
July 22, 2017
Every time I tried to write my sympathies to Lloyd's family it kept becoming poetry. I don't know if it's any good, but it's from the heart. -Morgan Campos
A long life well lived
Rich and full until the end,
Scholar, teacher, musician, father
Grandfather and family friend.
You were in my life since I was little
Helping my mother start her career,
Someone I always admired
A towering intellect so near.
Close family friend you became
And even more inspiration to me,
Is it any wonder then
That I studied Anthropology?
Now that you're gone from us
The world seems not as bright,
We will miss your wit and humor
Your musical talents a shining light.
But as I see it you are still here
Held in the hearts of your family and friends,
It proves that your influence lives on
We will not forget so it is not the end.
Some ancient cultures believed
Speaking a person's name makes them live again,
So, my promise to you, Lloyd
Is to always speak of you to others, my teacher and friend.
Lisa Brumback
July 22, 2017
Lloyd was one of the most gracious, kind, and fascinating people I have ever met during my career at DMACC. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. My thoughts and condolences go out to his family and loved ones. I agree with AJ completely------ he was a good guy and I am so fortunate to have known him.
Beth Blacksmith
July 21, 2017
My family and I are so deeply sorry to hear of Lloyd's passing. Lloyd was a sweet man and we so enjoyed his company.
The Blacksmith Family
(Niece of MaryBeth Wilk)
Kay Ruggiero
July 21, 2017
I am very sorry to hear about Lloyd. He was such a nice person. Prayers go out to your family.
Howard Paap
July 21, 2017
Lloyd and I met at a few SACC meetings as well as here in my home town of Bayfield, WI. What a worthwhile friend and colleague! His warmth, intelligence, and sincerity were welcomed. My wife Marlene and I wish his family well through this time of loss.
Mark Lewine
July 21, 2017
Had one last sweet talk with Lloyd after hearing the news that shocks. Over the rich taste of our favorite bourbon, I felt that wonderful smile light me up as we shared experiences, then ideas, and of course, some music. I have some cd's he sent me, so happy to share playing with Sam on one of his favorites. I've lost my dear wife this year, and now three of my most loved friends and colleagues. Lloyd was such a rare friend with so much to give others that both Sally and I counted him as that special friend who made each of us a better person for having loved him.
AJ
July 20, 2017
Lloyd was truly one of the good guys. I worked with him at DMACC and reconnected with him in Las Vegas. I will miss our lunches and great debates/discussions
Rest in Peace, AJ
Homer Hill
July 20, 2017
Lloyd was a friend who I will remember for the rest of my life. Rest In Peace.
July 20, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. May the peace of God be with you.
Jan LaVille
July 20, 2017
Lloyd and Bev will be remembered for their tireless, unpaid work as editors of the DMACCHEA newletter. Though some of us tried to carry on with it after their retirement, no one could match their time commitment and excellence. My condolences to Sam and Mary Beth.
Dennis & Deb Kellogg
July 20, 2017
What a wonderful friend, mentor and a gentle soul. He meant so much to so many and will be missed. Our deepest sympathy go out to his family. The world is much richer for the 79 years Lloyd spent with us
Tere Glasnapp
July 20, 2017
The time spent in your class broadened my world and opened the door to a passion I had not discovered.
Thank you
Dianne Chidester
July 20, 2017
Lloyd was one of the first people I met at my first SACC meeting. I was a non-traditional graduate student and he, on so many occasions, offered sage advice in his warm, unassuming way. He pursued everything with an easy-going passion and I always enjoyed listening to him talk about fieldwork, music, and many other topics. I will miss those conversations. My condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and former students. May good memories bring you comfort.
Tim Sullivan
July 20, 2017
Lloyd was one the kindest people I have known. His intelligence, warmth and dependability made him a vital member of SACC. I recall several times when we shared a beer, a funny story, and/or a serious discussion. Peace be with you, old friend! You will be missed.
Linda Light
July 20, 2017
Lloyd was one of the first people I met in SACC, at my first meeting in Santa Fe. He was so gracious and welcoming that I knew this was the organization I could feel the most comfortable in. I was right. He will be so missed by many.
Bob Mitchell
July 20, 2017
Lloyd enthusiastically shared whatever was on his mind and we were all the better for it. His passion for life, in spite of the losses he had experienced, was genuine and contagious. Lots of fond memories of our years together at DMACC. Happy that he and Mary Beth enjoyed their time together.
Deborah Shepherd
July 20, 2017
I am so sad. Lloyd could always be counted on for professional and personal encouragement. Supporting thoughts for his family.
Jane Tew
July 19, 2017
Lloyd was the first one to welcome me to Weekly Text Study. I will always remember his kindness.
July 19, 2017
Lloyd's family and closest friends-
You all are in our thoughts, as Lloyd has meant so much, to so many of us over the years. I am just grateful for the years of advice and great conversations with Lloyd at SACC meetings and via email.
Brian Donohue-Lynch
July 19, 2017
I met Lloyd once over the many years I knew him through our professional association ( the SACC). His work always encouraged me through his professionalism, his consistent quality, his personal attention, and his way of modeling an approach to our shared discipline that was both deep and down to earth. Condolences, and all best wishes to his family and friends.
Ryba & David Epstein
July 19, 2017
Dear Sam and Laura,
One of the great pleasures for us of moving to Des Moines was getting to know your father and joining in lively discussions with him. We really respected both his intellect and ethical qualities, which were obvious from our first meeting. We shall miss his company very much and hope you will be consoled by your loving memories of him. May his memory be for a blessing.
Ryba and Dave
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