Julie Ellen Newmiller

Julie Ellen (Erickson) Newmiller of Stevensville passed away on Monday, Oct. 9, 2024, at the age of 73 after a brief illness. She was born on Aug. 22, 1951, in Berwyn, Ill., to Roy and Eleanor (Maves) Erickson.

After her father's passing, Julie and her mother Eleanor moved to Harbert at the request of Roy's family. Eventually joined in Michigan by her aunts, Evelyn and Lucille, she was raised by three fiercely independent women that had a profound impact on her and her future. Julie graduated from River Valley High School in 1969. She later earned an associate's degree from Lake Michigan College and attended Western Michigan University.

Julie's work history was varied and rich. During her school years, she worked various jobs, including at her grandparents' former business, the Harbert Swedish Bakery, creating fond memories that she often shared. She developed a love for boats and the water while working at Pier 1000. Julie had a long career with American Electric Power (I&M) at the Cook Nuclear Plant, retiring after 30 years. Post-retirement, Julie found her true calling, education, working part-time in the Testing Center at Lake Michigan College. There, she developed strong friendships with staff and faculty and deeply enjoyed supporting students on their academic journeys.

High school sweethearts, Julie married Scott Newmiller on June 9, 1984. They welcomed their son, Sean, in 1986.

Julie was known for her gift of gab and never ran short of stories to tell. Independent and with a strong wit, she often had a laugh in her heart and enjoyed taking long drives along the lakeshore, solving word puzzles, cooking and spending time with family and friends. Julie was an avid University of Michigan football fan and loved cheering on her favorite drum and bugle corps, Phantom Regiment.

Julie is survived by her husband, Scott; her son, Sean (Tim) of Benton Harbor and countless extended family members and friends, who were as close as family.

In her immediate family, she was preceded in death by her parents: Roy Erickson and Eleanor Maves and her half-brother, Gordon Erickson.

At Julie's request, she will be cremated, and the family will hold a celebration of life gathering at a later date. Please visit www.julienewmiller.com for more information.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Humane Society – Southwestern Michigan Yeager Family Pet Shelter or the LMC Foundation Alumni Association Scholarship.

Julie's warm presence, infectious laughter and dedication to her work and family will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Arrangements entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI, 49085, 269-556-9450. Please feel free to sign Julie's online guestbook at www.starks-menchinger.com.