Michael Miller

Michael J. Miller, 71, of Champaign, died in his home on Monday March 20, 2023.

Michael was born on March 26, 1951, to Martha (Wilson) and Richard Miller in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. After graduating from Mt. Vernon Township High School, he attended the University of Illinois where he received a Bachelor’s in Music Education and a Master’s in Electrical Engineering. He worked as a research engineer at Electronic Decisions Inc., and then later as a network administrator for the U of I College of Veterinary Medicine until his retirement.

Michael was a talented musician and played in many bands throughout his life, including the Sting Rays, Cassidy, the Memphis Nighthawks, the Jack Webb Jazz Band, and the Traditional Jazz Orchestra. He mainly played tenor banjo and rhythm guitar but was capable with many instruments. In addition to his musical ability and traditional jazz knowledge, he was also known for his intelligence and wry sense of humor. His other interests included trains, baseball, tinkering with everything, cooking, and his grandchildren, whom he greatly loved.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, and by his sister, Jean Anne Miller. He is survived by his brother, Gary Miller; his children, Scott Miller (Cassandra) and Helen Miller (Matt); and four grandchildren, Kathryn, Kieran, Jane, and Dorothy.

In accordance with family wishes, Michael has been cremated. Friends may greet the family from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday April 4th at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm Street in Champaign, IL. A brief service will follow at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to WILL/Illinois Public Media at will.illinois.edu.

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