May 20, 2022

"We thank God for our dad. We love him with all of our hearts." With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our extraordinary father, Mark R. Miller, on May 4, 2022, in Ottumwa, Iowa.

Mark was recovering from a fall and COVID with the help of his son Mark and grandson Tommy. Mark was born September 14, 1941, in Iowa City, Iowa. 

He was survived by his children, Mark Miller (Robin), Diana Nottingham (Brian), and John Miller (Tig), and grandchildren, Tommy Miller, Autumn Miller, Bailey, and Bennett Nottingham. Step-Children Daniel, Gary, Donna, and Kenneth Brown.

Preceding him in death was his wife of 36 years Mayre Miller whom he loved with all of his heart. His loving father and mother, Dr. James and Wilma Miller, his grandmother, Eva Roth, and Aunt and Uncle, Ruth and Denny Barker. His precious granddaughter Amanda Miller also preceded him

Mark grew up in Ottumwa, Iowa, and graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1959. He attended Colorado State and Parsons College. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He moved to Tucson, Arizona, in 1967 with his ex-wife Linda Thompson Robbins and was quickly hired by the Pima County Health Department. He worked as a well-loved, dedicated, and knowledgeable Health Inspector for over 30 years until his retirement at age 53. Mark had many interests! 

He was an excellent marksman who loved to compete in various shooting matches, where he won many medals and trophies. He was an avid gun collector and loved the music of Johnny Cash. Mark loved playing his guitar, hunting, fishing, traveling extensively with Mayre, attending his grandchildren's activities, Friday night family dinners, cooking Sunday dinners for his family and friends, and eating ice cream sundaes! Mark will return to his home, Tucson, and rest peacefully next to his wife, Mayre.

A celebration will be held once he returns home to us. Dad, we forever love you and will continue singing your songs until we see you again. Cards of condolences/memorials can be sent to the family at 20681 Copperhead Road, Ottumwa, IA 52501. "I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. I keep my eyes wide open all the time. I keep the ends out for the tie that binds. Because you're mine, I walk the line." Johnny Cash."