Robert W. Miller Sr.

STREATOR – Robert W. Miller Sr., 84, of Streator, died Sunday, July 20, 2014, at Mendota Lutheran Home.

He was born Jan. 11, 1930, in Streator, the son of Joseph A. and Eleanor (Krebs) Miller. He married Norma Pozzie on April 14, 1956, in Toluca. She preceded him in death on June 23, 1998.

He attended St. Mary Grade School and Streator High School, and was one of the best basketball players to ever wear a Bulldog jersey.

He served 4 years in the Air Force during the Korean War, and was stationed in Germany.

Bob was employed from 1960 to 1990 as a letter carrier in Streator. The majority of this time was spent delivering mail to his beloved patrons on Riverside. He was a member of the former Immaculate Conception Church and was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Church. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus; a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1492; a past member of the church choir; participated in the VFW Bowling League, where he served as secretary for many years; officiated grade school basketball for several years; and had been active with the Lutheran Brotherhood ramp builders; as well as being an avid Chicago White Sox fan.

His constant faith in the Lord guided him throughout his lifetime. His family meant everything to him. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who will be greatly missed.

He is survived by one son, Robert “Rob” (Betty) Miller Jr. of Ottawa; one daughter, Carrie (John) Simonton of Dixon; five grandchildren, Joanie (Jimmy) Thrush, Peter and Luke Miller, and Nathan (Lauren) Simonton and Aaron (Vanessa) Simonton; along with three great-grandchildren, Gianna, Brycen, and Braelynn Simonton.

He also was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Joseph; and sisters, Helen Hart, Grace Hart, and Patricia Augustine.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 4 p.m., Wednesday at Hagi Funeral Home in Streator. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 513 S. Shabbona St., Streator, with the Rev. Philip Halfacre officiating. Burial, with full military honors accorded by members of American Legion Post 217, and VFW Post 1492, will be at St. Mary Cemetery in Streator.

Pallbearers will be Mike Hart, Pat Hart, Jason Tutko, Jim Vallazza, Sam Pozzie, and Jay Vallazza, with Mark Kaschak as honorary pallbearer.

Memorials may be made to Maryknoll Fathers, 55 Ryder Road, Ossining, NY 10562.