William "Rick" Miller

ROCKFORD - William "Rick" Miller, 86, entered Heaven on June 20, 2024. Although he traveled a lot in his younger years, Rockford was considered home. Rick was one of six children and his childhood was spent in Marinette, WI and Franklin Park, IL. Rick lived a life full of serving others. He was an Army Veteran and was stationed in Germany for a period of time. He was entrepreneurial and had a variety of business ventures from vending machines, a small restaurant, to a life-long business of painting and restoration. He loved nature and enjoyed walks at Klehm Arboretum.

Rick demonstrated his faith through servanthood.  Rick's love for Jesus Christ, His Lord and Saviour, encouraged numerous people. He regularly attended Heartland Community Church. He also visited many churches throughout the greater Rockford area. For the last 25+ years of his life he led bible studies with inmates in prison and had an active prayer chain. Many summers he spent traveling with Habitat for Humanity and helped to build homes for the less fortunate.

For years, Rick's sidekick, Sam and later Sam 2, (both Beagles) were his close companions for their time on earth. Rick also was a devoted friend. He would go above and beyond to help a friend in need. His motto was, "no hurry; no worry" or "think good thoughts."  Although he had no children, he was a grandfather figure to many and a beloved son, brother, and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews; notably Bob Reddersdorf, Laurie Cook, Lee Simmons, Michael Miller, Patti Caryl, Jayne Lemier, Bill Hintz, and  Christine Kilpatrick. He was preceded in death by his significant other, Roberta "Bert" Beidler.

Rick loved sacrificially, gave generously, and served faithfully. He will be greatly missed. A going-home celebration to honor Rick's life on the earth will be held at 5pm on Friday July 19th at Crosspoint Church 3215 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108.

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