Darrel "David" Miller, age 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Born on December 20, 1944, David was the cherished son of the late Darrel R. and Carolyn L. (Stone) Miller. He grew up learning the values of hard work and family dedication, bonding closely with his brother, the late Stephan R. Miller.

Following his graduation from Creston High School, David pursued higher education at Davenport University before earning his bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University, a milestone that sparked a lifelong pride and devotion to his alma mater. Professionally, David put his analytical mind and attention to detail to work at Rapistan, where he helped author and create the operations and maintenance manuals for their complex conveyor and material handling systems.

Above all else, David’s true passion was his family. He shared a life of deep love, devotion, and steadfast support with his beloved wife, Sharon J. (Morden) Miller. Together, they built a family grounded in love, encouragement, and shared memories.

A passionate sports fan, David played football and basketball during his high school years and remained an avid follower of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. However, his absolute highest loyalty was reserved for the Ferris State Bulldogs. Beyond televised sports, David's favorite place to be was in the stands cheering on his family; he never missed a single sporting event or band competition for his children or grandchildren, traveling near and far to support them. In his free time, David enjoyed listening to music from the1950s and 60s, and expanding his vast collection of sports memorabilia, and hunting for additions to his cherished Hopalong Cassidy collection.

David will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his gentle presence, and the endless support he showed to those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon J. Miller; his children, Darrel D. Miller Jr. and his wife Mary, and Sarah (Miller) Kissel and her husband David; and his cherished grandchildren, Rebecca Wilcox, Alicia Wilcox, Anna Kissel, and Stephen Kissel. Brother-in-law Art Morden & Pat, Sister-in-laws Linda Lytle, Shirley Hazen & Dan, Mildred Christensen & L.J. Along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Darrel R. and Carolyn L. Miller, and his brother, Stephan R. Miller.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids.