Obituaries

February 19, 1932 to November 7, 2021

WINAMAC - Howard Leslie “Les” Miller, 89, of West Lafayette, passed away Sunday, Nov. 7, at Franciscan Health East Hospital in Lafayette.

He was born Feb. 19, 1932 in Star City to the Esther Ruth Corts and Howard David “Knute” Miller Jr. Following his graduation from Star City High School in 1950, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. On Aug. 19, 1967, he married Nancy Eileen Cain in Oaklandon, IN. She survives.

Howard Miller

He is also survived by:
Cheryl (Gary) Feece, Winamac, Daughter
Kurt Miller, West Lafayette, Son
Kelly Sapp, West Lafayette, Daughter
Grandchildren: Russell (Amy) Abbott, Chase (Ashley) Miller, Ali (Evan) Jimenez, Kerrigan Miller, Kiersten Miller, Kole Miller, Tyler (Brittany) Sapp, Taylor (Devin Hutchins) Sapp, and Torie Sapp.
Great-Grandchildren: Jada Abbott, Gabi Abbott, Savannah Abbott, Thatcher Jimenez, Charlotte Jimenez, Daxton Hutchins, and Rhoen Hutchins.
Vern (Joan) Miller, Cincinnati, Brother
Larry (Bev) Miller, Winamac, Brother
Joe (Luanne) Miller, Auburn, Brother
Several Nieces and Nephews

Mr. Miller was a self-taught man of many talents. In early 1960s, he was a professional umpire for the New York Yankees. He also spent several years farming as well as building and selling grain dryers. He took part in many successful endeavors throughout his life. He was innovative, creative, artistic, and tech-savvy. He completed his studies at Purdue University and earned a bachelor’s degree in 1969. He and his wife owned and operated a Charles Chips franchise and later in life, they ran Porky’s BBQ concessions. He was a former president of the National BBQ Association. He never really retired. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Purdue University fan. He enjoyed watching old westerns and war movies. He especially enjoyed riding around on his scooter at the fairs with his dog Lilly. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 19, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 20, at the funeral home with Pastor Jim Cain officiating. Burial will be at Star City West Cemetery in Star City. The American Legion and VFW will conduct military graveside services.

Memorial donations may be made to Star City West Cemetery or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.