Skip Miller was born on August 16, 1950, in Pensacola, Florida to his parents Don and Fran Miller. Skip was born into a warm and loving family. Skip was a natural in all things, art, an avid reader, and a natural athlete. He was quite involved with Boy Scouts, 4-H, school sports, and a letterman in High School as well as helping out on the Miller family farm. When his little sister Barbara Ann (Bobbie) was born the two soon became best friends and playmates. Together, they would play at Bandits, Cowboys and Indians, or Pirates. As Bobbie recalls, “We were such good friends that he always spoke for me. Which was the main reason why I didn't talk until I was 3 1/2 years old!”

Upon graduating from High School, Skip attended Eastern Oregon College where he pursued a general degree in the Arts. At the end of his Junior year, Skip joined the Army, serving in Germany as a Medic for two three-year tours. Toward the end of his second tour of duty he was involved in a devastating car accident on the Autobahn. He was the only survivor, sustained severe injuries, and was hospitalized for several months.

After he was discharged from the Army, Skip enrolled at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Life after college was not easy for Skip. Still suffering from PTSD after his accident, he was diagnosed with Schizophrenia. He received treatment for his condition, and lived and worked in various locations around the country. He particularly enjoyed the time he spent near family in North Carolina. Skip lived the last twenty years of his life in The Dalles.

Despite his personal challenges, Skip kept busy. While going through his possessions, Bobbie was pleasantly surprised to find original artwork, paintings, several volumes of writing as well as full manuscripts which had been sent out for publishing.

Skip Miller was an amazing individual who had a complex intellect and who loved life! He enjoyed being around people, friends and family. Although he never quite knew how to break the ice, he still wanted to be with you! There was never a time that he would leave you without his huge grin and smiling eyes. To the end of his life he was concerned about his family, especially the welfare of his little sister.

Donald “Skip” Glenn Miller Jr. died on January 11, 2023 at his home in The Dalles, Oregon. He is survived his sister Bobbie Miller-Hart and brother-in-law Steve Miller-Hart, along with Cousins Glenn Miller, Christie Jacobs, Tracy Miller, and Garth Miller; Second Cousins Richard Higgins, Maryann Gibbs, and Martell Marshall of North Carolina, the daughters of Margo and Dave Higgins, and the daughters of Jim and Elaine Higgins, as well as his wonderful family back in North Carolina and Florida!

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.