Lewis Charles Miner

1927 - 2016

June 17, 1927 ~ December 6, 2016
Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Lewis Charles Miner, passed away peacefully at home on December 6, 2016 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Born June 17, 1927, in Salem, Utah to Charles D and Elmina Johnson Miner. He was the eighth of eleven children.
Lewis married Doris Chapman on December 15, 1950 in the Manti LDS Temple. They were blessed with five children. They enjoyed socializing and their different places of residence brought them many cherished friends as well.
Born on a farm in Salem, Utah, Lewis learned the principles of hard work and discipline which he exemplified throughout his life. Graduating from Spanish Fork High School where he served as Student Body President, he then entered the US Army at the end of WWII and served in the 11th Airborne Division in Japan. He attended the University of Utah where he was active in the ROTC and graduated with a B.S. in Pharmacy.
He was recalled to active duty in the Army Medical Service Corp. He served in the 1st Infantry Division in Germany, Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington DC, Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in Denver, Colorado, Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and The Office of the Surgeon General in Washington DC. Moving regularly, he would often point out that all of the children were born and baptized in different places.
During his 30 year military career, he served with distinction in ranks from 2nd Lieutenant to Colonel. He was a great leader of men, teaching and leading through example. He attended the University of Michigan where he received his Master's degree, and later his Ph.D in Pharmacology from the University of Utah.
Lewis had a deep abiding belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ and was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, magnifying all his callings throughout his life. He lived his life with integrity and served both God and his country with steadfast commitment and honor. Ever the optimist, he met life's challenges with faith and enthusiasm. For him, work was not work but a gift from God and he was upbeat and positive no matter the situation. When in his presence, every person was made to feel important; he served others with humility, compassion and love.
As a master gardener, Lewis always had beautiful yards with exquisite lawns and flowers. He was able to do anything he set his mind to and with his prodigious work ethic, he accomplished many things. Lew and Doris lived in several new houses and Dad added finishing touches both inside and out. He built or installed rock retaining walls, brick walkways and patios, fences, sprinkling systems, crown molding, wainscoting, and tiled floors, just to name a few.
Lewis loved sports, actively participating in skiing, hiking, boxing, camping, football, and was game to try almost anything. He enjoyed hunting with his prized and well-trained dogs. He was an expert marksman and won a number of awards while serving in the military. He loved watching his favorite sports teams and until the end could be found cheering them on to victory.
Dad was the ideal father. He was patient, kind hearted, even tempered, had a great sense of humor, and was always willing to help his children. He found time in his busy schedule to sing songs at bedtime, help with homework, practice sports, and share his love of music. Dad and Mom were extremely proud of their children and grandchildren and told them so regularly. In spite of all of his accomplishments, Dad was very humble and so grateful for all he had. Dad, we love you.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Doris, and his five children: Douglas C. Miner (Lanette),Mesa, AZ, Marilou M. Krstyen (Jeffrey), Salt Lake City, UT, Suzanne M. Darais (Thomas), Salt Lake City, UT, Stephen C. Miner, Alexandria, VA, and Jeffrey C. Miner (Loralee), Salt Lake City, UT; two sisters, Elaine M. Densley, Salt Lake City, UT and Dorothy M. Malmgren, Clearfield, UT, and 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 16, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at the Federal Heights Ward Chapel, 1300 Fairfax Rd., Salt Lake City, Utah, 84103, followed by interment at the Manti City Cemetery. Friends may visit at the ward building the night before from 6 to 8 p.m., and from 9 to 10 a.m. prior to the funeral.