Robert Burt “Bob” Miller passed away on May 8, 2015, in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 70. Bob was born on April 5, 1945, in Ely, Nevada, to Harold G. and Vanor Miller, née Aldrich. A committed athlete who lettered in basketball, football and golf, Bob graduated from White Pine High School in 1963. He attended Utah State in Logan for one year before transferring to the University of Utah, earning a bachelor’s degree in business in 1967. Following college graduation, Bob was drafted into the United States Army. He spent two years in the Officer Candidate School located in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. After serving his country, Bob returned home to his native Ely where he assumed ownership of Ely Motor Supply Company, a family-owned automotive parts business he successfully operated for over 30 years. During his time in the industry, he served on the board of directors for the Pacific Automotive Association, and he was also president and vice-president of the Pacific Automotive Show on separate occasions.
Bob was an active member of the White Pine community. He served two terms as mayor and was president of both the Ely Jaycees and White Pine Chamber of Commerce. Bob dedicated years of service to the Ely Volunteer Fire Department, and he was also a longstanding member of the Ely Elks Lodge and Rotary Club, serving as president for the latter.
Bob was an avid fisherman, hunter and golfer, and he spent many a summer day steering his boat through the waters of the Ruby Valley and Sunnyside, two of his favorite places in the world. A lover of life, people and dogs, he was always ready with a witty joke and a warm smile, and his inherent kindness and easygoing nature instantly comforted everyone around him. He will be dearly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his brothers, Rodney Miller and Joel Miller; partner, Susan Keough; daughters, Amie Lojeski, Rachel Miller and Bobbie Miller; grandchildren, Abigail and Carter Wilson; and numerous extended family members.
A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor at the Ely Elks Lodge on Saturday, May 30, at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute or Promise Hospital of Salt Lake City.
I’m Sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I knew him in High School then when I moved back to Ely 20 years later, got to know him a little better when I sold him radio ads from KELY. He was always polite and good natured. It’s sad to hear of his passing.
RIP Bob.
I was very sad to learn of Bob’s passing, and send my sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and friends. I haven’t seen him in decades but will always remember his laughter, sense of humor and love of life. Rest in peace, dear friend.
I had the pleasure of working for Bob for 15 years at ely motor supply, he was the best boss anyone could ask for, often to nice, but never the less Bob always treated me like a brother. My time working for Bob will be forever remembered. Thank you Bob
Ray Yelland