Van "Satch" Alford Miller
Van “Satch” Alford Miller, 81, of Waterford, passed away on Friday after a long illness. Satch was born and raised in Green Valley, PA. He served in the United States Air Force overseas, where he met his wife, Ellen. After his military service, he joined the Iron Workers Union, Local 348. He retired from that work in 1999 after more than 40 years. He went on to work for Corry Auto Auction and Lake Erie Auto Auction, retiring in 2013. During his life in the Waterford community, he coached little-league baseball, played softball, umpired, was an excellent bowler and an avid gardener.
Satch was a member of the Draketown Christian Church. He loved his Lord and Savior with all of his heart. After God and family, his greatest loves were hunting and fishing. He passed along this love to his sons and grandchildren. Chuck Weary was his best friend and hunting and fishing buddy for nearly 50 years. No doubt, they’re hitting the woods and streams of heaven together.
Satch was preceded in death by his parents, Van & Laura Miller, 4 sisters - Jane, Shirley, Laura, and Sara, and 2 brothers – Glenn and Wayne. Also, many brothers and sisters-in-law. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ellen, sons Glenn (Paula), Leonard (Theresa), Patrick (Laura) and Shane (Tracy) and 2 daughters Deborah (John) Davis and Tammy (Troy) Soltis. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren – Chris, Cody, Dylan, Daniel, Elizabeth, Jeremy, Bobbi, Heather, Glenn, James, Danielle, Brittany, Jessica and Andrew, 14 great-grandchildren, with 2 more on the way, and many nieces and nephews. He is further survived by one sister, Dorothy Wolfe and two brothers, Clifford Miller and Kenneth Miller.
The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Hamot Hospital – ICU and the 7th floor. Their care, kindness, and compassion will always be remembered. Also, Stanley Neal, who is the best neighbor anyone could ask for.
Family and friends can observe calling hours at Draketown Christian Church on Monday from 1-4 PM. A service to celebrate his life will take place on Monday at 6:00 PM with Pastor Ron Kennedy officiating. Burial will be private at Draketown Church Cemetery.
Memorials can be made in his name to Draketown Christian Church, 12460 Draketown Road, Edinboro, PA 16412.
Askins Cremation Funeral Services, 8354 Wattsburg Rd, Erie, PA 16509 is assisting the family with arrangements.