Walter P. Miller Jr. 1933-2019

Walter, known by his family and friends as “Sonny,” was born Nov. 7, 1933, in Struthers, the son of the late Walter and Grace (Crawford) Miller Sr.

Sonny enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He served on the USS Tidewater (AD-31) Shenandoah Class Destroyer, where he earned the National Defense Service Ribbon.

After returning from the war, Sonny worked as a foreman for a paint manufacturing company for 40 years, retiring in 1995.

He was a member of American Satin Rabbit Breeders Association and ran the open rabbit barn at the Canfield Fair for more than 15 years. He also enjoyed gardening and playing his bagpipes with a local bagpipe band performing in many parades.

Sonny is survived by his wife and best friend of 40 years, the former Shirley A. Roth, whom he married Nov. 22, 1979; four children, Deborah A. Gallagher of Struthers, Walter P. Miller III of Warren, Cathy L. (Rex) Glasgow of Pataskala, and Fredrick P. Miller of Florida; three grandchildren, Michael G. Mrosko of Youngstown, Melissa A. (Charles) McCudden of Struthers and John F. Heydle of Austintown; a brother, James R. Miller of Campbell; brother-in-laws, Robert C. (Carol) Roth Jr. of Myrtle Beach, S.C. and William A. Roth of Austintown; many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews; and his four-legged friend Rocky.

Besides his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by a son-in-law, George Gallagher; a daughter-in-law, Georgine Miller; three sisters, infant Marion Miller, Jean (Rocco) Gatto and Beverly Caputo; and sisters-in-law, MaryAnn Miller and Evelyn Roth.

Per Sonny’s wishes, there were private funeral services held Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019, at Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers with military honors at Brunstetter Cemetery in Austintown. His great nephew, the Rev. Jared Woodward, officiated.

There were no calling hours.

The family requests that material tributes take the form of contributions to Hospice of the Valley, Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, OH 44514 in memory of Walter (Sonny).

Sonny was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was honored to serve in the U.S. Navy and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Condolences may be sent at www.beckerobits.com.

(special notice)