John Walter Miller

John Walter Miller of Lake Saint Louis, Missouri, died Jan. 1, 2026, following a massive heart attack. He was 64.

John was born on April 29, 1961, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was a devoted husband, father, neighbor, and friend. John was known for his expansive heart, his steady presence, and the deep, uncomplicated love he offered freely to others. He believed in treating others with kindness, connecting with people, and living each day with intention, gratitude, and faith.

John was married to Nancy Van Hook Miller, whom he affectionately called his soulmate. Their life together was marked by closeness in the most ordinary and meaningful ways. They walked hand in hand at the park, watched sunsets from their porch, prayed together, cooked and cleaned side by side, and shared daily routines. John often told Nancy, "I'm madly in love with you, madly," a sentiment he lived fully. At home, John made the morning coffee, did the dishes, helped make the bed, and folded laundry. Wherever Nancy was, John was nearby.

Evenings on the porch were among John's favorite times. He loved to watch sunsets and talk about faith, health, family, and plans for the future. He was curious, thoughtful, and intelligent, with a broad and searching mind.

John spent more than 35 years as a truck driver, most recently with Davidson Logistics. He was recognized as a five-star driver and valued professionalism, responsibility, and doing his job well. In the final period of his working life, John was able to semi-retire and work three days a week, a change he embraced and enjoyed. He spoke often of retirement and of wanting to be home every night, free from long hours on the road. He had hoped to retire fully this year.

Earlier in life, John served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft electrical systems specialist. He attended Ranken Technical College and received his diploma in November 2000. He earned a black belt in taekwondo.

Faith was central to John's life. He attended Foristell Church of Christ and West End Church of Christ. He enjoyed attending church gatherings, going on hayrides, and participating in potluck meals after services. Prayer was a constant part of John's daily life, especially during difficult seasons. He believed in accepting what could not be changed, giving concerns to God, and choosing love over bitterness. One prayer that reflected his outlook was the Serenity Prayer, which he lived by and shared often.

John had an extraordinary way with people. He talked easily with neighbors while taking out the trash, waved from the porch, greeted others by name, and made time to listen. He believed deeply in helping others feel accepted, respected, and loved. Those who met him often left with a smile. John loved laughter and connection, and he worked intentionally to create those moments for others.

He also found joy in classical music, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, swimming in the community pool, vacationing in Florida, going out to dinner with family, walking in the park, and sitting quietly with Nancy. He loved generously and freely without expecting anything in return.

John passed away in his truck after making it home to St. Louis, where Nancy waited for him and held him at the end. He was not alone.

John was preceded in death by his father, John Walter Miller, and his mother, Doreen Delores Carnrite, both of whom died during his youth.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Van Hook Miller; his son Travis and step daughter Jazmine; and his sisters Jane Ello and Ruth Ann Miller Hertel.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. March 27, 2026, at Foristell Church of Christ, 761 Highway T, Foristell, Missouri 63348. Bill Haywood will officiate. Burial will follow at Jefferson Barracks Memorial Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63125.

Flowers are accepted. John loved red roses and lots of baby's breath. Memorial contributions may also be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

John's life was defined by how fully and generously he loved. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the kindness he showed without hesitation.