William "Jim" James Miller

William “Jim” Miller II, 68, passed away at his home on December 22, 2019. Jim was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on February 8, 1951 to the late William J. Miller “Bill” and Irene (Kramer) Miller. He was raised in Portage, Michigan with his brother Robert Jay Miller. After graduating from Portage Northern High School, Jim went on to Ferris State University. He later moved on to a career at the Upjohn Company (Pfizer)that spanned more than 37 years. Jim loved the people he worked with and enjoyed reminiscing with old friends and co-workers at the monthly retirement breakfasts. Jim loved sports! He enjoyed bowling and playing adult hockey as a goalie. One of his greatest passions was coaching and playing for the Upjohn slow pitch softball team “Freak Bros.” He truly believed it was the greatest sports team in world history and one day would be enshrined into the sports hall of fame. Throughout his many years of playing sports with his brother Robert, Jim would often say “Robert was a better athlete, but he was better looking.” He was proud of his friendship with the late Galesburg-Augusta Hall of Fame High School Football coach, Bill Maskill and loved sharing stories of their friendship over the years. They enjoyed sharing breakfast 3 days a week for the last 10 years. Jim lived life on his terms and believed in living a life of full happiness and experiences, and to share those joys with his loved ones daily. He was inspired to live out the life lessons taught by Dr. Leo Buscaglia, whom he thought was the greatest teacher of life. “I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” – Leo Buscaglia Jim is survived by his son; William “Willie” Miller, of Schoolcraft: brother; Robert (Tammy) Miller: grandchildren; William “Jimmy” Miller IV and Mackenzie Fay Miller: nephew; Bobby Miller: and niece; Andrea Miller. Everyone that knew Jim, knew his son and grandkids were the center of his life and he cherished the time he had with them. He spoke to his son daily and always told him “I love you, I’m proud of you, and all I want is for you to be happy.” The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home, 129 S. Grand St., Schoolcraft, MI 49087. www.avinkcremation.com. (269)679-5622.