"May the road rise to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face,and the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand !"
In loving memory of
Harry J. Miller, Jr.
September 14, 1959 - January 2, 2018
The most cherished husband, father, brother, neighbor and friend, Harry J. Miller passed away in Venice, Florida on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at the age of 58.
Harry is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Valerie, and their shared pride and joys - his daughter, Jessica, his son, Harrison, aka "Harry's son" and his shadow and furry grandson, Romeo.
He is waiting in Heaven above with Mom and Dad watching over his two older brothers, Scott and Kelly, his sister, Christy, younger brother, Rock and every single one of his nieces, nephews, and beloved family friends. Every person who has crossed Harry's path made an imprint on his heart; and his dependable, hardworking and goofy self will forever be in ours.
Harry was born in Tonawanda, New York on September 14, 1959. He graduated from Tonawanda High School, class of '77. He went on to earn his Captain's license, FWC Charter license and all associated nautical and boating certifications. Capt. Harry was proudly self-employed and owner of Harry J. Miller Enterprises and JessFishin' Charters.
"Hair the Bear" lived for family boat days and deep-sea fishing on his various charter boats over the years, all named after daughter, Jess. If you've never tasted his freshly grilled snook, you've never really tasted fish. He enjoyed scuba diving, camping, hunting with his brothers, playing Poker, Sunday BBQs, the NFL (Go Bills & Bucs!) and following the VHS Indians every Friday night before and after Harrison's jersey was on the field. He was an advocate of sharing memories and passing on life's most important lessons, like the value of a dollar and " Don't worry about a thing, every little thing is going to be alright". Yeah, way.
There will be a gathering of family and friends from 11:00 a.m. until Noon, with the Celebraton of Life to follow at Noon on Sunday January 7, at Lemon Bay Funeral Home, 2 Buchans Landing, Englewood, FL 34223.
A luncheon will follow for friends and family at the Englewood Moose Lodge, 55 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34223.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association and the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences for the family may be offered online at lemonbayfh.com
Lemon Bay Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.
Tributes
"So sorry to hear of Harry's passing. I graduated with him and he lived next door to my in laws while growing up. We had our 40th high school reunion this past July and he was a classmate that was missed and asked about. May all your memories help hold him close to your hearts, until you meet again. He was a special friend to many and am glad he had a wonderful life after leaving Tonawanda. Kathy and Keith Hoppel"
"We are so sorry. Harry was a dear. Always waving that friendly hello as I rounded the corner being pulled along by the Ziemke dogs Kelsey and Marley. Laughing with me and never at me. I especially felt his sincerity when he wished me well in my recovery whenever we met. I will always honor his faith in me, his care and love he had for others suffering. His heartfelt hugs will be missed by many but his spirit will light our lives eternal."
"All our love to Val, Jessica, and Harrison. So many fond memories of Harry, his brothers and Christy. (The best times of our childhood) Would love to hear my Favorite aunt Jeannie's giggle when she greets you in heaven Harry. All our love to all our cousins in the loss of a beloved, cousin, brother, husband and dad, Hair Bear??'???'???'???'?"
"I hope you all can find some comfort, Val, Jessica and Harrison knowing Harry is so loved. Boating, fishing, camping, working, cooking and a Pictionary peg log. I am sorry, such a loss for you all."
"Viewing the slideshow I see Harry exactly as I remember him; happy and full of life. My deepest sympathy to Val, Jess and Harrison. You have lost him too soon.. All my love to our Florida family??. Gayle Miller Weber"
"Harry was the best! He will be missed by many! Especially the Dorsey family! He had such a giving heart! Our prayers go out to his family!"
"MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE MILLER FAMILY MAY THE ANGELS IN PARADISE WATCH OVER HIM"
"Words cannot express the sadness I feel hearing this news. Harry was a special person and so full of life. My thoughts and prayers are with all of my cousins and Harry's family as well. Wish we could be there for you. Love to all Geni"