Gregory James "Papa" Miller

life story

Loving husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather

Gregory James Miller was born on June 23rd, 1950 in Marshall, Minnesota to Albert and Lucille Miller. Growing up, Greg enjoyed adventures with his siblings, such as burying Monopoly money with his sister (they were never able to find it again). As a teenager, Greg and his friends would each contribute a quarter and they would then drive around town and hang out.

A quirk of fate led Greg to meeting his soulmate. After his high school graduation, Greg attended Granite Falls Technical School. Linda Hess was a student worker in the office and came across a notecard with Greg’s name and birthday on it. Considering that Linda was born on June 22nd, 1950, she was determined to meet him. It was love at first sight, and within a year they were married. They started their family in Marshall and soon added Kory, Kelly, and Kasey to their household.

In 1982 Greg and Linda relocated from Marshall to Brooklyn Park. Greg worked at Monarch Foods (later US Foods) as a buyer. At home, he enjoyed collecting baseball cards, landscaping his yard, and watching All-Star Wrestling on television with his son Kory. He also enjoyed visits from his brother Perry and sister Linda and her family. During these visits, he enjoy playing Yahtzee, bocce ball, and watching Twins games.

In 2007, Greg was promoted to Papa when his granddaughter Sophie Lucille was born. Sophie was followed by Oliver Bruce in 2009 and Lucas Gregory in 2013. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he enjoyed visits with them and spoiling them at every opportunity.

Greg retired from US Foods in 2012. In his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his wife Linda. They enjoyed going out for lunch, visiting Duluth, and spending time with their grandchildren.

Linda passed away from lung cancer in 2017, devastating Greg. After her passing, he found joy in his grandchildren. He also enjoyed building Lego sets and displaying them around the house.

Gregory passed away on March 9, 2021 after a fast battle with the Covid 19 virus. His heart and soul were ready to rejoin his wife in heaven.

Greg is survived by his children Kory, Kelly (Ben) Engquist, and Kasey, and his grandchildren Sophie Lucille, Oliver Bruce, and Lucas Gregory Engquist. He is also survived by his siblings Carol (Dennis) VanOverbeke, Cliff (Barb) Miller, Linda (Don) Breyfogle, and Perry (Susan) Miller and numerous nieces and nephews. Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Lucille Miller, infant brother Larry, wife Linda, and granddaughter Ruby Elizabeth Engquist.

Please wear a mask, stay socially distanced, practice good hygiene habits, and get vaccinated when possible.