Lonnie (Lon) Wayne Miller, 76, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. He was born on May 29, 1948 in Sioux Falls, SD to Launey and Verna Miller.
Lon served honorably in the Air Force as a Sergeant with 610 Mass. While deployed to Hawaii, Japan, and Vietnam, he forged lifelong, deep bonds with his brothers at 610 Mass and will be sorely missed.
Lon married Deborah (Deb) Bakalyar on August 22, 1970. Together they raised Jennifer and Heather. Despite the challenges they faced, Lon and Deb strengthened their love for each other and united in their love and support for their daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Lon made an impact on everyone who was lucky enough to know him. He showed his love in so many special ways: bags full of Teddy Grahams, printing Jessa’s team t-shirts, giving them adorable nicknames like Cupcake; of course, through his mission to thank every veteran he met with a handshake, a tearful “Thank you for your service,” a commemorative coin, and a prayer. He recently told his brother, “This is my cure for PTSD.” We’re told that through his organ donation, he will save the lives of up to seventy people.
His role as the incredible Boppa to Esther, Kaesen, Kinley and Krue was his proudest. He is a hero and mentor to his grandson Drew (Karen) Miller. He showed us all how to love passionately and unconditionally.
Lon was preceded in death by his parents Launey and Verna Miller, his father-in-law Carl Bakalyar, and his special niece Jessa Kay.
He leaves behind his wife Deb, his daughters Jen and Heather, his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his brother Larry (Cindy) Miller, his mother-in-law Arlene Bakalyar, his sisters/brothers-in-law Mike (Carleen) Bakalyar, Chuck (Danielle) Bakalyar, Carla (Paul) Slostad and many, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
SERVICE INFORMATION:
Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 1:00 p.m., Minnesota State Veteran’s Cemetery-Preston MN (715 Highway 52 in Preston).
*Please arrive no later than 12:40pm to join the convoy to the service location.
Following the service, there will be a gathering for everyone to share stories and celebrate Lon’s life. Details will be announced at the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be made in the care of the family. **Please note: The cemetery cannot accept floral arrangements****
Macken Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements
