William J. Miller, Jr.
William J. Miller, Jr. of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at the age of 86 at Tidewell Hospice in Port Charlotte. He is remembered for his lively conversation and ready smile, as well as his love of sports and antique automobiles.
Born January 3, 1937, in Norwalk, Conn., to Marion and William Miller, Sr., Bill grew up in Norwalk and lived in Fairfield County for many years. He relocated to Hyde Park, NY, in 1992 and later, with his wife Susan, to Punta Gorda. Bill was well-loved in their Ventura Lakes community and was regarded fondly by everyone who knew him.
Bill and Sue, who recently celebrated 25 years of marriage, traveled extensively together. Highlights included a trip to Alaska, several cruises, and — their favorite destination — the Bahamas.
His long career as a manufacturing engineer included 35 years at Pitney Bowes, as well as time at Hughes Aircraft (including work on the Hubbell Space Telescope) and IBM.
Bill’s closest friends shared his love of classic automobiles. He was a longtime member of The Kaiser-Frazer Owners Club, International (KFOCI), an organization dedicated to those rare antique cars. His impeccably restored, prize-winning 1953 Kaiser Dragon was a source of pride.
He also adored sports as both an active participant and an avid fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants. His love of baseball led to serving as a commissioner of Babe Ruth Baseball in Connecticut and as an umpire in the Hudson Valley. A beautiful skier, Bill carved a path as a ski instructor for many years, well into his retirement.
Bill was predeceased by his sister Diane and parents Marion and William Sr. He is survived by his loving wife Susan; sister Christine (Russ); children Cynthia (Dana) and Gregory (Suni); as well as first wife Janet. He considered Sue’s family as his own: daughters Dawn, Janine (Beth), and Kristine (Matt) and grandchildren Jamie (Joe), Dan, Mike, and Alex.
A celebration of life will take place in the spring of 2024 at a date to be determined. Memorial contributions can be made to the Jimmy Fund or Tidewell Foundation.
