Lon C. Miller

Lon C. Miller, 76, of Athens went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at home with his wife. He was born on March 7, 1948, the only son of Don and Dorothy Miller. Lon was united in marriage with Penny Miller on November 17, 2012.

He is survived by his wife and their five children, Hailey (Shawn) Rico, Tanner Miller, Jerrod Hayes, Chad (Samantha) Hayes, Travis (Shea) Hayes; 8 grandchildren, Brynn, Tyler, Keeli, Jadh, Haili, Camden, Corbin, Piper; sisters, Nancy Miller, Jane (Berry) Harris, Judy (Mike) Atherton; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant sister, Deborah.

Lon was a graduate of Bloomingdale High School in 1966, participating in ALL sports. In 1968, he was drafted to fight in Vietnam, where he was awarded many accolades including the Purple Heart. He retired from the Eaton Corporation after 41 years and was a member of the NRA, Southeastern Michigan Bird Dog Association for over 21 years and was a big game hunter and fisherman. Every Wednesday you could find Lon at Mr. Don's for his chili dog and large chocolate shake.

After his retirement, Lon spent the last 20 years with his family and never missed one of Tanner's or any of his children's games and was always present for birthdays with cake. Lon has been called a lot of things throughout his lifetime, but Papa was his favorite.

The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the Heartland Hospice Team (Maggie, Dee and Laura) for their exceptional care during this most difficult time.

Visitation will take place at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00 and Tuesday, June 4, 2024 from 10:00 - 12:00 noon, with the funeral service to follow at 12:00 pm.

Interment will take place at the Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com.