Duane E. Miller

Duane E. Miller, 87, of Sparta passed on Sunday, May 3, 2026 surrounded by family, at his home. He was born on November 15, 1938 to Edmond and Josephine (Jordan) Miller Jr. on French Island. He grew up in Leon, and graduated from Sparta High School in 1958.

After high school, Duane joined the Army National Guard. He met Lois Hoag, and they were married on September 19, 1959 in Warrens.

Duane worked as a mechanic for Jelco Bus, and Jackson Chevrolet; and the Monroe County Highway Department, where he remained until his retirement.

In his free time, Duane was a guitarist and soloist in a band. He enjoyed camping, and telling off color jokes at Lynda Lou’s. He was a lifelong Packers and Brewers fan, and had a love/hate relationship with the teams.

Duane is survived by his wife, Lois; children, Pamella Collins, Jill Miller, Gwen (William) Weekley, and Gary (Mary) Miller; 9 grandkids; 12 great-grandkids; one great-great granddaughter; sister, Jane Jerome; and many other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, William and James (Hop); and sister, Zona.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Randy Williamson officiating. Burial will be at Ox-Bow Cemetery, in Melrose, with military honors provided by the Melrose American Legion Post 439. A luncheon will follow the burial at the Sparta American Legion Post 100.

A visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, and from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Thursday, at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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