Obituary
Joseph Robert Miller, 78, of Fort Pierce, Florida, passed away on Friday, June 14, 2024. He was born in Queens, New York, to the late Robert E. and Catherine Schmitt Miller, and grew up in Sayville, Long Island, NY. Joe dedicated 30 years of his life to the Long Island Railroad before retiring and relocating to Fort Pierce, where he pursued his passion for woodcarving.
In retirement, Joe opened The Woodcarvers Den and became a renowned master woodcarver. He founded and served as president of the Indian River Woodcarving Club, where he shared his skills generously. Joe's craftsmanship extended beyond his workshop; he crafted canes for veterans in need, including notable pieces for Burt Reynolds and Johnny Depp. His love for Elvis Presley was legendary, reflecting his vibrant personality and interests.
A proud veteran, Joe served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and later in the Navy Reserves. He deeply valued his military service and the camaraderie it fostered.
Joe is survived by his daughters, Patty Kruger and husband Gerard of Columbus, Ohio, and Jennifer Flanagan and husband Terry of Dublin, Ohio; grandchildren, Samantha Seale and husband Mark, Nicole Forte and husband Anthony, Rob Kruger, Shannon Flanagan, Jimmy Flanagan, and Kiera Flanagan; great-grandchildren, Aliyah Forte, Alex Forte, Luke Seale, and Lily Seale; constant companion, his rescue dog Buster, who saved Joe as much as Joe saved Buster!
He was preceded in death by his son, Robert E. Miller, and his sister, Barbara Osik.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm on Monday, June 24, 2024 at Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home, 1950 20th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960 772-562-2365.
Joe's legacy of creativity, generosity, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the community he enriched with his talents and kindness.