Marilyn Mercia Miller

May 23, 1920-April 9, 2012

Marilyn Mercia Hathaway Miller passed away peacefully in her home on Monday April 9, 2012 at the age of 91 years. Marilyn held very close ties with family and friends. She had a deep-seated faith and immense compassion that guided her throughout life. Growing up in Calgary, she had many fond recollections of the city’s earlier days, including historic Braemar Lodge. Marilyn attended Central and Western Canada High Schools, the latter also by her children and grandchildren. At the University of Alberta she earned a B.A. in 1943. While there, she served on the “Gateway” newspaper and was a member of Pi Beta Phi and Le Cercle Francais. Also she starred in the Noel Coward’s “Hand’s Across the Sea”. In 1943, she married George Miller with whom she shared 65 years of blessed marriage. Post-war they went to Minnesota where he specialized in cardiothoracic surgery. In this highly demanding field, she was by his side every step of the way. They returned to Calgary where he was instrumental in founding Calgary’s cardiovascular program at the Holy Cross Hospital. Marilyn selflessly volunteered for 40 years helping children around the globe – the motto - “To serve the cause of children in need, to whom mankind owes the best it can give”. Initially she was volunteer Chairman of Alberta Cansave. Subsequently she and a few others founded Alberta Child Reach, for which she served as volunteer President. Marilyn was involved with Allied Arts Center, Junior League, Century Calgary, Miles for Millions, Red Shield Appeal and Canadian Council of Christians and Jews. She was a recipient of the Canada Centennial Medal. Marilyn was predeceased by her beloved parents Sam and Ethel Diamond and in 2009, her beloved husband Dr. George Miller. She is survived by their children; Hugh/Margaret Miller (Sophia), Bruce/Morgan Miller (George, Patrick, Joanna Mercia), Dr. John Miller, Dr. Nick/Anne Mohtadi (Alexander, Geoffrey, Olivia Hathaway), for whom she was a most wonderful mother and grandmother. She is also survived by numerous nieces/nephews and brothers-in-law/sisters-in-law. Funeral Services were held at Grace Presbyterian Church, 1009 – 15 Avenue SW on Thursday April 19, 2012 at 11:00am, with The Reverend Victor Kim officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via the website www.fostersgardenchapel.ca.

FOSTER'S GARDEN CHAPEL

FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM

Telephone: 403-297-0888

Honoured Provider of Dignity Memorial