Don Miller

Don O. Miller was born August 25, 1914 in Shickley, Nebraska the oldest son of Alpheus and Emily Miller. He had an an older sister, Dorothy (deceased) and younger brothers: Austin (deceased) and Harold, living in Florida, and a younger sister, Louise (deceased).

In 1940 he married Pauline Lucille Peterseim and they had two children: Jeanette Louise, born in 1942 and James don, born in 1945. Don and Pauline lived in Kalona for most of their married life in the one-story brick home Don built in the early 1950’s. He also built, with his carpenter crew, other brick homes in Kalona.

In 1963 Don and Pauline purchased Kepler Hardware, changing its name to Miller Hardware and Gifts, reflecting the addition of Pauline’s wish to provide a gift store with a bridal registry to the community. Don offered installation and repair services regarding heating, cooling, and plumbing.

Don was an active steward for the United Christian & Baptist church, donating time and energy to building, repair, and maintenance, utilizing his skills in carpentry and electronics. He served as an Elder and sang in the choir.

Don is survived by his wife, Pauline, his daughter and son and 5 grandchildren: Todd Yoder of Clarksville, Maryland; Tia Yoder of Eagan, Minnesota; Trent Yoder of rural Kalona; Jesse Miller of Fort Collins, Colorado; and Caitlin Miller of Lakewood, Colorado. There are 6 great grandchildren: Garrett and Pauline (Tia Yoder and Dan Iwerk’s children), Charlotte and Susan (Todd and Karen Yoder’s children), Samuel and Henry (Trent and Tammy Yoder’s children).

A great granddaughter, Ivy Jane, the daughter of Trent and Tammy, preceded her great grandfather in death. Valerie Tinnian is a great granddaughter, by marriage.