Jacob "Jake" Miller

Jacob "Jake" Miller, of Three Rivers, passed away on August 27, 2025. Jake was born on July 30, 1931, in Three Rivers, MI. He graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1949 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, enlisting from 1952 until 1954. During his service, Jake earned the National Service Defense Medal, The Korean Service Medal with three bronze combat campaign stars, the United Nations Service Medal Korea, and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal, achieving the rank of Corporal.

Jake was a man of humble demeanor—loving, mellow, easygoing, wise, and faithful. He cherished his family, most notably his wife Caryl, whom he married on September 5, 1959, after being set up on a blind date by his aunt. Their love story spanned over 60 years, a testament to their deep bond.

Jake dedicated over 35 years of his life as a factory worker with Brunswick and Interkal, where he was involved in the production of school chairs and bleacher seats. He later found fulfillment in working as a janitor for over 25 years at the Schoolcraft Branch of Kalamazoo County State Bank. This role held a special place in his heart as he often brought his children along to help with cleaning, teaching them the value of hard work and responsibility.

Throughout his life, Jake remained devoted to his faith and community. For more than six decades, he was an active member of the Three Rivers Bible Church. His commitment to the church was underscored by his roles as a Sunday School Assistant, Board member, and deacon. Loved by all who knew him, Jake found joy in assisting at summer Bible camps, ensuring that his contributions enriched the lives of young attendees.

A passionate outdoorsman in his youth, Jake enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he found pleasure in tending his garden at home, cultivating both plants and meaningful memories.

Jake will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, gentle spirit, and the love he shared with his community and family.

Jake is preceded in death by his wife, Caryl; one son Matthew A. Miller; his parents: William and Katherine Marie (Wolslaven) Miller; one sister: Joyce Sherry; and one brother: Paul Miller.

He is survived by his two children: Lynette (Tim) Wolthuis, of Vicksburg; Mark (Mary) Miller, of Kentwood; four grandchildren: Philip (Alicia) Miller, of Wyoming; Holly (Trung) Nguyen-Mills, of Wyoming; Amy Miller, of Kentwood; Levi Miller, of Louisville, KY; two great grandchildren: Sidney and Grace Miller both of Wyoming. He is also survived by his sister: Jackie Moorehouse, of White Pigeon; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to honor his life will be held on October 4, 2025, at the Three Rivers Bible Church, located at 220 North Erie Street, Three Rivers, MI, starting at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service beginning at 10am..

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign his guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Three Rivers Bible Church, Birch Meadows, and/or Three Rivers Health Hospice c/o Beacon Health Foundation.

The Miller family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 129 South Grand, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269) 679-5622.