Philip Miller, 81, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on January 4, 2024, after a brief illness. A visitation will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 9 - 11 a.m. at McLaren's Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines, Iowa 50265. Burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery.
Phil was born in Winterset, Iowa on October 13, 1942, to his mother Frances Marie Painter. He graduated from Lincoln High School and attended Drake University in Des Moines, where he earned his B.A. and J.D. He practiced law for over 50 years, specializing in worker’s compensation and personal injury law for much of his career. Truly passionate about his work and helping his clients reach resolution on their cases, he finally retired at the age of 80.
Fishing on Lake Michigan and gardening have been life-long joys for Phil. But there was no greater joy for him than his family. He had unconditional love for his children and grandchildren, with pride and (often loud) celebration of their successes and supportive encouragement in response to life’s challenges. They have been left with so many memories and hilarious stories from their time with him, and for that they are grateful.
He is survived by his children, Kathryn (Paul) Williamson of Chicago, Illinois, and Susie Miller-Wendel of St. Charles, Illinois; and his grandchildren, Maxwell and Lance Maharry and Liam and Selma Wendel. He was preceded in death by his lovely wife, Ruth Miller, who passed away from cancer at the young age of 53.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of his late wife Ruth, donations would be appreciated to the American Cancer Society.
