Obituary of William Jean Miller

July 7th, 1944 - August 22nd, 2023

It is with heavy hearts the family of William “Jean” Miller, announce his passing at the age of 79. Jean passed away on Aug 22, 2023 leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and cherished memories. In his final moments, Jean was surrounded by the very love and strength that he had bestowed upon others throughout his entire life.

Jean was dearly loved and will be missed by his four children, their spouses, and his grandchildren. Chad (Melissa) Miller and their children Brayden and Saydee; Nicole (Grayson) Weir and their children Alex and Emily; Delee (Dana) Pyrch and their fur babies Jax, Izzy and Bentley; Ashley Miller (Geoff Hopkins) and their children Bodie and Scotty; Gladys Klein, his beloved friend; his sister Mona Lee (Ken) Kirkland; and his “Little Brother”, Monty (Evelyn) LeComte. Jean was predeceased by his loving wife of 48 years Sharon Miller; his parents W. Alexander and Edna Miller. 

He was born on July 7th, 1944, in Shellbrook Saskatchewan, to Edna and Alex Miller. He was the oldest son and had a younger sister Mona Lee and inherited a little brother, Monty LeCompte one day, when his dad brought Monty home from the neighboring Husky gas station. 

Born and raised on a farm, Jean understood the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He spent his early days helping his dad on the farm, feeding cows, pigs and running farming equipment. These values were not only instilled in him but also passed on to his own children, ensuring that the legacy of their farming heritage would live on for generations to come. 

Jean’s early career was in the meat industry, where he worked for Agriculture Canada. He finished out his career in the pulp and paper industry working for Weyerhaeuser.

In 1978 Jean and Sharon would build the family farm that has remained the family home across the road from Jean’s family farm.  Jean and Sharon raised their four children on the farm and created many memories together along with family and friends.

Jean was a  remarkable individual who brought joy and laughter to all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with them. He had an extraordinary knack for connecting with people of all ages, always taking the time to sit down, listen, and share stories. Jean was a true people person, and his charisma and warmth made everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Jean loved the outdoors and enjoyed riding horses, camping, fishing and gardening. He found solace in observing the many birds that enjoyed life out on the farm. Jean also enjoyed listening to live music and dancing on Saturday nights. 

Jean’s family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Saidu and the amazing staff at the Shellbrook Hospital for the compassion and care given to Dad during his stay. A very special thank you to Karen and Brenda Cromartie for surprising Jean with a horse at his hospital window. 

A special thanks to all of those who took time out of their busy lives to stop in and visit, send notes and phone calls. We know he treasured each visit. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 at the Shellbrook Community Hall. The service will begin at 1:00 and will be a time for family and friends to come together to remember Jean's remarkable life. In honour of Jean and his love for his western lifestyle, feel free to wear western attire.

For those who are unable to attend Jean's service on Saturday, the family wishes to share a live stream link below of the service:

https://evt.live/funeral-service-for-william-jean-miller

 Those wishing to make a donation in Jean’s honor may direct them to Shellbrook and Districts Health Services Foundation – Palliative Care Family Room.(Box 33 Shellbrook, SK. S0J 2E0). Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, Lynn Anderson Funeral Director, Shellbrook, SK 306-747-2828.