William S. Miller, 86, a longtime resident of Skaneateles, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2019, at The Commons in Auburn, N.Y.
Born Sept. 17, 1932, in Cortland, N.Y., to Ralph S. and Helen (Collier) Miller, Bill is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Karlene (Barth) Miller; his daughters Janice Miller, Karen Fenner (Holden), and Linda Miller (Robert Lowry); his grandchildren, Hilary Fenner, Kelsey Fenner, Matthew Lowry, Christopher Lowry, and Hannah Lowry; his brothers, Jack Miller (Anna), and Ralph Miller; sister-in-law Marylyn Barth; a niece, nephews, cousins and treasured friends.
Bill served stateside in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict, graduated from Cortland State Teachers College and received a master’s degree from SUNY Oswego. An educator for 30 years, he was a physical education teacher, a coach, and a guidance counselor in the West Genesee Central School District. In retirement, he volunteered countless hours for various organizations in the community, including service for over 30 years with local food pantries, and was an active member and volunteer with the Finger Lakes Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society. Bill was an excellent high school athlete, an accomplished bowler, and a member of the horseshoe league in Skaneateles for 50 years. He was open-minded and curious, an avid reader and enjoyed international travel with Karlene. Bill loved Skaneateles Lake. Beginning in his childhood in the 1930s, he spent every summer on Skaneateles Lake and was a dedicated lifelong steward of the lake. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who made life joyful for others. His great sense of humor, generosity, caring, and unwavering kindness will be missed by all who knew him.
Calling hours are from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 2, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to SAVES, 77 Fennell St, Skaneateles, NY 13152 or to the Skaneateles Lake Association, Inc., PO Box 862, Skaneateles, New York 13152. To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
