Richard Miller

Richard "Rich" Miller Jr., age 57, of Fenton, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025, in the ICU at SLU Hospital, surrounded by loved ones and the dedicated medical team who cared for him throughout his final journey.

Born on July 17, 1967, in St Louis, MO. He graduated from Eureka High School and went on to build a respected career as a machinist spanning over three decades. For more than 25 years, he worked at Mueller Machinery until its closure, after which he continued his craft at G&H Tool & Die for the past five years. His colleagues and friends knew him as a hard worker and a quiet helper-someone who could fix anything and always lent a hand when needed.

Rich was a devoted father to his three children: Richard Miller III, Brittany Miller, and Kaitlyn Miller. All 3 lived in his loving and supportive home.

Rich also leaves behind his sister Missy (Joe) Boccardi; his brother Chris Miller; his nephews Joey & Gianluca (Duke) Boccardi; his niece Anabella Boccardi;

His beloved aunts, Sue Campbell, Cindy Darr, Judi Bira, and Darlene Skaggs (Wallis).

His many close cousins (Campbell, Bira, Whyman, Clarke, Skaggs) and many more. His cousin, Shelly Campbell, assisted us with her extensive knowledge as a nurse practitioner.

Rich was preceded in death by his father, Richard Miller Sr.(52) in a boat accident, and Maureen Burton (Benz) (60) to cancer;



Outside of work, Rich lived an impactful life with passion and purpose. He found happiness, friendship, and family at the racetrack. He was proud to drag race for Bad Rat Racing & Performance Engines.

One of his proudest recent moments came when he was able to attend the Race for Autism drag race-thanks to the support of friends who prepared his car so he could compete. Rich won that race alongside his best friend Rick Thomas, a victory that brought him immense happiness during a difficult time. He thanked everyone in a post online and asked for prayers in the coming weeks in tackling his health.

Rich also gave back to his community as a softball coach, volunteer at Skeleton raceway, Bonterre track, Kirkwood ball fields, and was known for his love of sports-especially Blues hockey and his nephews' hockey teams. Whether cheering from the stands, helping at the tracks, or coaching from the dugout, he brought dedication and heart to everything he did.

In mid-April 2025, Rich was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a rare disorder that began with discoloration of his skin and eyes.

After an initial hospital stay at St. Luke's for treatment and education on managing the disease, he returned home with plans to resume work soon. Despite facing increasing health challenges over the following weeks-including multiple hospitalizations, tests, and procedures-Rich remained hopeful and engaged every step of the way.

On May 6, Rich was officially approved for placement on the liver transplant list with a MELD score of 34. He returned home briefly on May 14 but experienced complications shortly after. On May 17-after being intubated due to rapidly declining blood pressure-Rich passed away in the ICU at SLU Hospital. His family gathered by his side as doctors and nurses worked tirelessly in their efforts to save him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Befeler, and the entire transplant team at SLU Hospital-the surgeons, social workers, dietitians, bedside caregivers, and countless others who supported Rich with compassion and expertise throughout his illness.

Rich never complained during his battle with AIH. He faced every challenge with quiet strength and unwavering hope-a testament to the kind of man he was: a wonderful father, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, co-worker, coach, racer, fixer of all things, and all-around amazing human being.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who were touched by his life.

Instead of flowers, please consider a donation to help his children with all the unexpected expenses, and losing their support base.



A Celebration of Life will be held on June 29, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Tapawingo National Golf Course & Banquet 13001 Gary Player Drive, Sunset Hills, MO. 63127