Daniel Miller

Daniel L. Miller, age 79, of Yankton, South Dakota, died peacefully surrounded by his family and beloved caretaker, Jane, on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at Avera Sister James Care Center.

A celebration of Dan’s life will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 PM on November 20, 2023 at the Yankton Elk’s Lodge in Yankton, South Dakota. There will be a time of sharing at 1:30 PM and all of Dan’s friends, colleagues, and former students are welcome to share their memories.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Wintz & Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Yankton.

Honorary pallbearers are Nick Miller, Tim Miller, Erik Homer, Jim Kellar, Max Ciferno, Doug Haar, and Ed Klasi.

Dan was born November 10, 1943, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Frank and Margaret Miller. Dan was the middle child born in between his brothers Gary and Tim. The family moved to Madison, where Dan graduated High School and met his first wife, Sandie, with whom he had two children, Troy and Julie. Dan graduated from General Beadle State Teachers College, now known as Dakota State University. His first teaching job was in Wagner, prior to moving with his young family to Yankton, where he started teaching at Yankton Middle School. In the summers, Dan assisted his father, Frank, and his brother, Gary, at “Miller’s Autobody”. Dan received his master’s degree from the University of South Dakota in History. 

Dan met and married his second wife, Gail, who was a grade-school teacher for many years in Crofton, NE. Dan and Gail had two children, Stephanie and Nick. Dan taught history and government at Yankton Middle School for nearly 50 years. Dan’s passion was teaching, and he loved his students. Dan was a multiple nominee and recipient of Yankton School District’s Teacher of the Year.

On New Year's Day 2010 Dan Miller was honored with a flag proudly flown over the Headquarters of the 34th “Red Bull” Infantry Division in Basra, Iraq. The flag was a thank-you from a General visiting the troops. The General quizzed the soldiers on their knowledge of US History, and one soldier kept standing up and answering the questions correctly. When the General asked the soldier how he had gained such keen knowledge of US History, he replied, “My middle school teacher, Mr. Miller.” The general was so impressed that he awarded Dan the flag that had flown over the base in his honor and recommended him for Presidential recognition.

Dan enjoyed reading, painting, photography, art, poetry, classic Western, and mob movies. He loved to discuss and debate politics. He liked fishing, baseball, and going on walks in the neighborhood. Dan and his wife, Gail, enjoyed their family and were particularly proud of their grandchild, Max.

Dan is survived by his daughter, Julie Miller, Denver. His daughter Stephanie Miller (grandson Max Ciferno), Denver. Son, Nick Miller, Westminster, CO. Brother Tim Miller and his wife Sherry of Mission Hill. Several nieces, nephews, and in-laws also survive him.

Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Gail, his son Troy, his brother Gary, and his parents, Frank and Margaret.