Raymond A. Miller

Dec. 19, 1916-Aug. 18, 2010

CULBERTSON, Nebraska -- Raymond A. Miller of Culbertson died Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2010, at Community Hospital in McCook. He was 93 years old

He was born on Dec. 19, 1916 at Culbertson to Frank A. and Anna (Wittwer) Miller. Ray grew up on the family farm north of Culbertson and graduated from Culbertson High School in 1934. He then farmed until enlisting in the Army Air Corp in January of 1940. As an AP Crew Chief, Ray was stationed at Hickam Field when Pearl Harbor was bombed on Dec. 7, 1941. He also served in the Central Pacific, Northern Solomons, New Guinea, Papuan Guadalcanal, and then was a mechanic instructor in Colorado Springs and Mountain Home, Idaho before his honorable discharge in July of 1945. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal with a Bronze Star, the Asiatic-Pacific Service Medal, and the Distinguished Unit Citation by the Secretary of War. He then returned to Culbertson and established two successful farming locations for over 35 years. In 1962, Ray began working for Nebraska State A.S.C.S. until retiring in 1980. Ray was Commander of the Culbertson VFW for two years.

On Aug. 21, 1943, he married Alma K. Frick. To this union five children were born. He enjoyed his family and stressed honesty in their lives. Ray and Alma spent retirement years traveling throughout the United States visiting each of the 50 states. He loved being with his grandchildren and following their many activities.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brother, Max Miller; sisters, Delta Burgess, Emma Martin, Ann Reiger; three infant siblings; and son-in-law, Cliff Rigg.

Survivors include his wife of almost 67 years, Alma Miller of Culbertson; son, Leland Miller and wife, Barb, of Culbertson; daughters, Ramona and husband, Jerry Kotschwar of Culbertson, Kasey Rigg, Jo Bunstock, and Deb Gilliland of Lincoln; 12 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Ruth Hesseltine of Clackamas, Oregon.

Memorials may be given in his name to cancer research.

Visitation will be Friday from 9-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Friends may send condolences to the family at www.carpenterbreland.com

Funeral services will be Saturday, Aug. 21, 2010, 10:30 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Culbertson with Pastor Corey Jenkins officiating. Burial will follow at the Culbertson Cemetery.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.