Peggy J. Miller

Peggy suffered a stroke in May of this year, and ultimately passed from stroke-related complications. Peggy was a beloved wife, mother, grandma, great-grandma, friend, homemaker, pray-warrior, and without question, the most selfless woman you’ve ever met.

Peggy was born April 6, 1928 to Tom and Leola Tyne in Denver, Colorado. She married John E. Miller on December 24, 1949, and they remained married for 52 years until John’s passing in 2001. She cared for him unselfishly through the best and the worst of times, and was a loyal, loving wife.

She started out as a homemaker while her family was young, then began volunteering at Foothills Gateway Rehabilitation Center. After many years of volunteer service, she transitioned to full-time work doing what she did best – caring for the disabled and the needy. Peggy had a special heart for the mentally disabled, and showed saintly patience in a job that few can do. She served in this labor of love for over 25 years. Peggy retired in the late 1980’s to spend time with her husband and grandkids.

Peggy enjoyed the simple things in life; crossword puzzles, coffee with friends, playing dress-up with her grandkids, holidays, making creative gifts, and charity. She took a keen interest in all of our lives, and her joy was most aptly captured in witnessing the happiness of others.

On February 17, 1951, Peggy was credited with saving dozens of lives when the Denver Athletic Club caught fire. Several people died and were injured in the blaze. Peggy worked as a switchboard operator for the Club, and when the fire broke out she and another operator braved the intense smoke and heat to alert residents of the fire. They were ordered out of the building, but when the fire was out, they went back in to continue notifying family and guests even though the building was declared unsafe. An act that exemplifies her servant’s heart – putting her needs aside, looking out for everyone else. That is how she will be remembered most.

Peggy is survived by her son, Mark Miller of Loveland; grandson Micah Miller and wife (Jessica) of Denver, and granddaughter Hayley Schanafelt and husband (Dave), of Johnstown. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren; Tyan, Caleb, Kaitlyn and Luke.

Peggy was preceded in death by her eldest son, Richard; husband John; daughter-in-law, Kathy; sister, Betty and brother-in-law Glenn, and many extended family members.

During the last few days of Peggy’s life, she was heard saying over and over, “Hurry up, the King is waiting”. No doubt, she was on the doorstep of eternity and her angels were preparing to escort her home. Her family will miss her dearly, but those words will comfort us until we meet again.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Foothills Gateway Rehabilitation Center in Peggy’s name (301 W. Skyway Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80525).