Phillip Dale Miller, 65, of Laramie, Wyoming, passed away on Monday, September 6, 2021. After a long and incredibly courageous battle with declining health, our beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, left this world for his Heavenly Home.
Phil was born in Colorado at the Fitzsimmons Army Hospital on August 30, 1956 to Dale and Eunice (Adams) Miller. He joined his older brother David, and later, two more brothers, Gerry and Mark, to be certain their mother was most definitely outnumbered. Their adventures while growing up in Van Tassell, Wyoming were the stuff of legends, and have made the most excellent stories over the years.
Phil made a living working the land he loved, driving trucks across the country he loved, and building and fixing cars and trucks, and the infamous “Mad Max” as his final project. He loved farming and ranching, and his dedication and work ethic over the years was shown sun up to sundown (and often later) seven days a week. Over the years, he made his home in Lusk, Keeline, Wheatland and Laramie, and without a doubt left a mark on those places and their people.
Three daughters and a son would round out his life’s adventures, beginning in 1982. A lifetime of valuable teachings for them instilled work ethic, honesty, humor, dedication and love that they will carry always. As will the many lessons that only ranch life can teach children; tractors, cows, dirt roads and snakes all have lessons of their own.
To say that Phil lived his life as fully as possible would be an understatement. He had no “quit” in his nature and fought his long term battle with Multiple Sclerosis and Leukemia with the tenacity of a warrior and a healthy dose of humor. His way of story -telling of his life’s adventures never ceased to have us laughing, sometimes until we cried, and could make you feel like you had been right there with him as he was derailing the train with his buddy, teasing his grandma’s chickens, or building his latest creation. His re-telling of his favorite “Rindercella” story was a fan favorite, among countless other stories and jokes he always had at the ready.
Phil was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his mother, Eunice, and his brother Gerry. He is survived by his father, Dale and brothers Dave and Mark. He is further survived by his daughters, Jenifer (Curtis) Cook, Janet (Cody) Allen, and Mandy Miller, and son Jon (Elizabeth) Miller. Many grandchildren will also continue his loving, humorous and strong legacy, Destiny, Bryson, Tanner, Cooper, Ryker, Jordan, Tobias, Esther, Charles, Rebekah, Ruth, Olivia and Eli.
Phil leaves his imprint on the lives and the hearts of those he loved and who loved him immensely in return. Family who adores him and friends who became family are forever influenced by his integrity, honesty, wit, faith, and pure grit. His legacy of love and inspiration live on in all who knew him. Our loss is great, but our blessings are greater. We will think of him often and smile at the memories we share.
A celebration of Phillip’s life will be held on September 20, 2021 at 11am at the First Christian Church in Wheatland, Wyoming (95 19th St.).
Memorial donations may be sent to Hospice of Laramie (1754 Centennial Dr. Laramie Wy 82070) to honor the place and the incredible humans who cared for him so lovingly in his final months.
Phil was the most honest, kind and giving soul. He truly touch the hearts of those around him and he will be dearly missed. I’ll miss you buddy
My heart is saddened by his passing. He was loved so deeply by many many people. My prayers and love the the family. My hod wrap you in his arms and help you get through this very sad time. Girls, I know your dad will be watching over you as he is your biggest fan.
Phil you will be missed! Thanks for all the smiles knowing you was a true blessing. See ya there my friend
Phil was a good friend to me at the darkest point of my life. His light lessened the darkness until I could find the light myself and I will always love him deeply for it. He changed the way I saw the world. They say when legends pass a new star is left in their stead. I believe Phil is continuing to be a light in the dark in this way. Rest in peace Phil, until we meet again on the other side.
Phill was a loving person and had always made my day
May U have a Safe trip home, my friend
RIP, Phil. You were the strongest, most forgiving , and tenacious man. Your inner strength was overwhelming, and we are so glad we were apart of your life. Now you can rest easy dear friend. Prayers for all the family and may you find joy in all the memories.
Thoughts and prayers for the family. I am honored to have known Phil. He was an inspiration to all. He will be missed by many. He made this world a better place!
Phil was my classmate, never a negative word ever, he loaned me his hat for Sr pictures cause I forgot mine. Glad he is pain free , he suffered for years , with not a negative word. See you again. The world was better with you in it .?
Sending love, peace and memories during this sad time. Peace be with his daughters and entire family. RIP Phil.
Sending hugs and prayers to all who knew and loved Phil. A true inspiration to many and he will be greatly missed. Until we meet again ❤️
I first met Phil when he came to school in Lusk from the VanTassel school in 6 th grade.Right off we became friends. Thru the years we enjoyed and survived many of our adventures…. From fishing, hunting , drag racing our Mustangs and just anything that sounded fun. Later in life we laughed at ourselves for the dumb things we did. Phil always had a smile and a story. Gonna miss ya Buddy but we will meet again and share our stories again .