Philip Jacques Miller, aged 74, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many, passed away on March 21st, 2024 in Morrison, Colorado.
He was born on April 14, 1949 in Paris, France to Yoska Nemeth and Jacqueline Leferbvre. His parents split up when he was young, and his mom remarried US Serviceman Bill Miller who was stationed in Paris with the US Army. Bill brought the family to the United States in 1958 and officially adopted Philip and his siblings; Laurie and Pat on November 17, 1959. They originally settled in Baltimore Maryland, but soon relocated to Denver, CO where he lived the rest of his life.
After attending Lakewood High School, he made the brave decision to serve his country by joining the US Army where he was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam war. Shortly after leaving the military Phil married Jackie Satterfield and had his only child David in 1971, although the marriage didn't last, they remained very good friends throughout the years. He followed his dad in working at Martin Marietta for most of the seventies, but then decided to start his own cleaning business which he did until his retirement. Phil was briefly remarried in 1977 as it only lasted a few months. From that point he led the bachelor life until he met Kathleen Mitchell at his favorite bar the Bonfire in 1992. They began a relationship that lasted the remainder of his life, the third time was the charm.
Phil could light up a room with his infectious laugh, it was so guttural and French sounding. That along with his facial expressions you couldn't help but laugh too, it was so funny. He really enjoyed the outdoors and loved to go fishing and trolling around in his and Kathy's little green boat. He had a few memorable trips, one to California when David was a kid, one to Glendo, Wyoming where he caught the biggest walleye with Kathy and a Caribbean cruise to celebrate his 60th birthday with his family. He always loved any family events, his regular lunches with David, and enjoyed watching his grandchildren Ryan and Ethan's sporting events for as long as his disability would allow. Phil was also a critter lover, it didn't matter if it was dogs, cats, birds, squirrels or even mice. Animals loved him unconditionally. Phil also loved shooting pool and hanging out at the bar with his friends. Likely due to his own struggles, Phil had a very kind heart for people that suffered with addiction. He would support them however he could, even taking them into his own home.
Unfortunately, Phil was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in December 2020. He battled it like a warrior and was able to give his family 3 years and 3 months of additional cherished time with him. Phil will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife Kathy, son David, daughter in-law Nhu, grandsons Ryan and Ethan, sister Laurie, brother Pat, nephew Steve, and nieces Jennifer, Danielle, and Sarah.
Phillip's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time.
Click Here to view the service.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society to help find a cure for this terrible disease.