PORTER- Donald Francis Miller, 82, of Porter Maine, passed away Tuesday at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Baldwin, Maine on October 17, 1935. Son of Roland (Bunk) and Addie Miller, Donald graduated from Porter High school in 1954, and married Bette Miller in 1955.
Donald was known as a hard-working, skillful man with a quick wit and a heart of gold. His first job was on the tar gang, tarring roads through the mountains of western Maine. He then worked locally at the Kezar Falls Woolen Mill, Cornish Oil Company, Kezar Falls Lumber, and retired as a lead man at Vulcan Electric in 1986. After retirement, he enjoyed growing and selling flowers, leading him to start a small business called Don’s Flowers. He also developed a passion for wood-working and carpentry. He built beautiful furniture for friends and family and remodeled his own house among other projects. Don was an avid outdoorsman. He spent weekends jigging smelts at Long Pond and rabbit hunting with his dog, Tessie. Don always loved dogs and had a particular fondness for bull dogs. Over his lifetime, Don owned many and was a member of the Bulldogs of Maine Club. He was a talented musician, often found at the piano singing country music with friends and family. He was also known to spend many Saturday nights out waltzing with Bette. Don maintained many enduring friendships and could be seen every morning at coffee with the guys. He was a lifelong Yankee fan who coached little league, umpired softball for years, and instilled a love for sports in his family.
Donald cared for his family like no other. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. Don and his wife Bette spent over 60 years together, raising three talented sons and growing a family that was his pride and joy. Don is predeceased by his eldest son Craig. Don spent countless hours by Craig’s side on family vacations, trips to work, and even hospital visits. He is survived by his wife, brother, two sons, and large extended family.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday Sept. 7 from 4 – 6 PM at the Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home, 71 Maple St. (Rt. 25) in Cornish. Burial will follow at Stanley Cemetery in South Hiram. Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com