Neil Herbert Miller

Neil Herbert Miller

SPRINGFIELD: Neil Herbert Miller, 85, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on July 17, 2014. Neil was born on March 9, 1929 in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of Paul Riblet and Clara Esther (Beck) Miller.

He is predeceased by his parents and three brothers: Dwight, Melvin and Delmar.

He graduated from the Mansfield High School Class of 1947 and the University of Arizona in 1950. Neil was wed to Loretta Marie Bowers in 1956 and the couple relocated to Springfield that same year. The Millers found a wonderful community and went on to raise six children in a neighborhood full of lifelong friends where they have remained to this day. Neil loved nothing more than meeting new people and visiting with old friends.

He turned this passion into a successful career in sales with Stone Container Corporation. At the age of 55 Neil suddenly found his position of over 30 years had been eliminated. Drawing upon dedication to family and resourcefulness learned growing up in the Great Depression, Neil turned this setback into the opportunity he?d always wanted, to start a family business. Over the next 25 years he, with the help of his family, built his company, New Method Packaging (in Springfield), into a legacy for future generations. Over nearly 60 years in Springfield, Neil remained an active member of Story-Hypes United Methodist Church and subsequently High Street UMC - the friends, activities and wonderful memories are too numerous to recount.

Raising six children, he was an active participant in Boy Scouts, the Indian Guides and supporting his wife's leadership of 4-H groups for many years. In later years, he greatly enjoyed participation in the Kiwanis. His love of people also led him to his favorite service, dedicating untold hours visiting those who due to illness or disability might otherwise be unable to remain in touch.

Neil is survived by his loving wife, Loretta; daughters, Nelia Miller of San Gabriel, California, Melanie (David) Gauthier of Jacksonville, Florida, Julie Sea of Irvine, California; sons, Kevin (Beth Ann) of Troy, OH; Thomas (Gabriella) of Chesapeake, VA and Nolan of Columbus, OH; sister Vivian Amspoker of Phoenix, AZ; sisters-in-law, Nancy Miller of Millersburg, OH, Gwen Clark of Mentone, IN and Norma Bowers of Northport, FL; 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Community Mercy Hospice, 444 W. Harding St, Springfield, OH, 45505, the Nehemiah Foundation, 3rd floor, 616 N. Limestone St, Springfield, OH, 45503 or your local church of choice.

Viewing will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2014 from 4-7 p.m. at JACKSON LYTLE & LEWIS LIFE CELEBRATION CENTER, 2425 N. Limestone St. Springfield, where service will be on Monday, July 21, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. Rev Jeff Allen officiating. Burial to follow at Rose Hill Burial Park. Condolences may be expressed at www.jacksonlytle.com.