Harty Miller

Harty Miller, 86, September 1928 – September 2015, resident of Clearwater, Florida. After surgery complications, Harty passed away peacefully at Morton Plant Hospital on September 15, 2015, and began the journey to his eternal home in God’s heavenly kingdom. He was born in Frederic, Wisconsin, one of four children of the late James and Johanna Miller. Harty was the caring brother of the late Herb Miller and the late Milton Miller, and a sister who died in early childhood. He is also survived by a number of brothers- and sisters-in-law. He grew up in Minnesota, attended Faribault High School, received formal drafting training, and survived polio. He became a draftsman and achieved a long and distinguished career at Honeywell, where he rose to Drafting Dept. Supervisor.

Harty was all about family; he was the beloved and devoted husband of the late Patricia Dusbabek Miller, whom he loved dearly. Harty and Pat began their family and moved from Minnesota to Clearwater, where they lived the rest of their lives. They leave a rich and bountiful living legacy, beginning with their seven cherished children: Diane Miller Woelfel and husband Jimmy, Winter Haven, FL; Janet Miller Leissner and husband Rick, Morganton, NC; Mary Miller Howard and husband Mickey, John’s Island, SC; Barbara Miller Clare and husband Pete, Clearwater; James Miller and wife Nereida, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.; Victoria Miller Mitchell, Clearwater; Patricia Miller Rando and husband Clif, Orlando, FL.

Harty and Pat’s wonderful living legacy extends to 21 fine grandchildren and 23 precious great-grandchildren – all of whom he made a point to meet and spend time with. These, along with countless other family and friends who were blessed to know him, enjoyed their time with Harty, especially at family reunions and special occasions. Harty touched the lives of many people with his smile, laughter, quick wit, and trademark sense of humor all through his faithful life. He was lovingly faithful to his family, devoutly faithful to the Roman Catholic Church, and faithful in service to St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Clearwater – where he was a treasured long time usher and counter of the offerings. His children attended St. Cecilia School there. He was also well known for being a good steward of the gifts and resources God provided him with, as well as for warmly sharing humorous, political, and particularly meaningful or beautiful e-mail messages. Harty enjoyed soduko, ping-pong, and puzzles; he was also quick to share his mechanical and handy-man skills with those in need.   

The visitation and Rosary will be Friday, September 25, at Rhodes Funeral Directors in Clearwater, from 11:00 to 1:00, with the Funeral Mass at nearby St. Cecelia Church at 1:30. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.

 

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