Frank “Ben” Miller — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Frank “Ben” Miller, 84, of Quincy, passed away at 12:27 am Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at High Point Residence in Quincy, IL.

Ben was born October 1, 1940, in Quincy, IL to Frank “Mike” and Marion (Payne) Miller. On January 20, 1979, Ben married Rayola Viar, in Quincy, IL. Their partnership was a testament to love and mutual respect until Rayola’s passing on April 16, 2013.

Ben’s legacy is carried on by his loving daughters, Debra Miller (Jo Oitker) of Bowen, IL, and Donna Shanks (Kevin) of Fayetteville, NC, and his adored grandson, Brandon Shanks of Fayetteville, NC. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rayola, his parents, and his son, Frank “Denny” Miller.

He graduated from Unity High School in 1959 and soon after found his calling as a machinist at Gardner Denver. His precision and skill were matched only by his love for the land, as he also managed a cow farm near Mendon. Ben’s commitment to his community was evident through his active membership in the Masons, where he shared his time and talents generously.

Ben’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. His farm, home to 15-20 cows, was his sanctuary, and he took great pride in maintaining the farm equipment with the same precision he applied to his work as a machinist. His home in Quincy was a reflection of his love for the outdoors, where he could often be found mowing the lawn or riding his 4-wheelers, always in the company of his loyal retrievers and labs.

A voracious reader, Ben’s interest in history led him to explore the depths of WWII and the Civil War through the pages of countless books. His love for Westerns was not confined to literature, as he was an avid fan of “Gunsmoke” and other classic Western television shows. Sports were another of Ben’s joys, and he held a special place in his heart for the Dodgers, a nod to his mother’s Brooklyn roots, though he was an ardent Cardinals fan at heart. Attending live sporting events, from St. Louis Blues games to Quincy Gems matches, was a cherished pastime.

Celebrating his German heritage was a highlight of each summer, as Ben reveled in the traditions of German Fest. His appreciation for nature and the outdoors was evident in his regular walks at Southpark, a tradition he lovingly shared with his daughter even on his last birthday. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, family, and community. Ben’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the legacy he leaves behind.

Friends and Family are invited to Ben’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Friday, November 15, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. A Funeral Ceremony will directly follow at 11:00 am with Dr. Tom Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.