MILLER, Clarence Alexander ‘Butch’
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, great grandfather ‘Papa’ at the age of 80. On May 17, 2017 with family members at his side, we shared our goodbyes as Dad peacefully passed to rejoin the love of his life, his wife Myrna Margaret (Locke), who spent 56 years together and raised four children.
Born in Glace Bay, he was the son of the late Florence Viola Miller (MacDonald). The youngest of five children; sisters, June Burgess and Mary Reid, and brothers, Layton and George.
In his younger years, Dad enjoyed playing softball and later loved watching baseball becoming an avid Blue Jay fan. He also enjoyed bowling and playing crib with Mom.
As Dad started out his employment, he worked for S&L Railroad, then Cape Breton Development Corporation until retirement. Over the years, he was involved in union activities and sat with the Co-op board of directors. He was also a long time member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, sat on the board of managers as well as being treasurer of the building fund for many years. Dad, alongside Mom, enjoyed contributing much of their time preparing and helping with church functions.
Papa was very proud of his family. A treasured grandfather, enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren who he loved to tease.
Dad will be sadly missed by sons, Glen Miller (Colleen), Glace Bay and Paul Miller, Bedford; daughter, Susan Miller-MacConnell (Gary MacConnell), Hammonds Plains; grandchildren, Jeffery Miller (Tara Lyn), Mark O’Neill (Kelsey Pitt), Carter O’Neill (Sara), Maggie-Beth O’Neill (Andy Budden), Cameron O’Neill (Alisha McCorriston), Jacob Miller and Michael Miller; great grandchildren, Jude Miller, Hayden Gour, Ireland O’Neill and Hudson O’Neill; brother-in-law, Bill Locke (Diane); sister-in-law, Coleen Locke MacLeod; many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was predeceased by wife, Myrna Margaret Miller (Locke); daughter, Sheila Anne Wright; sisters, June Burgess and Mary Reid, and brother, Layton.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 26, 2017 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Patten Funeral Home, 71 Union St., Glace Bay. Funeral service on Saturday, May 27 at 2 p.m. in St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Brookside St. Glace Bay with Rev. Allan MacLellan officiating. Interment to follow at Black Brook Cemetery, Port Morien.
Family flowers only. Memorial donations can be made to the St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Building Fund, SPCA or charity of one’s choice.
Online condolences can be sent to family at www.pattenfuneral.com.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff of the cardiovascular and cardiology services at the Halifax Infirmary for their care and support during our father’s hospitalization.
A special thank you to Bill Locke and John MacDonald for their friendship and faithful visits. Thank you to nieces Carol Burgess and Donna Burgess for always being so loving and kind.
A heart full of gratitude and thanks to the staff at Parkland Cape Breton who became Dad’s extended family over the past two years. The kindness, loving gentle care, support and friendship our father received will be cherished and not forgotten.