Gerald “Old Goat” G. Miller, 75, of Wiscasset, died Feb. 22 at his home.
He was born in Chicago, Ill., on May 29, 1933, the son of Harold G. and Virginia Watson Miller. As a young man growing up in Cicero, Ill., he spent time with his brother, Ronnie, drag racing motorcycles and at the Hawthorne Racetrack where he exercised the horses and enjoyed the colorful horseracing culture.
He served with distinction in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was twice decorated for valor, receiving the Soldiers Medal and Bronze Star Medal. He was personally decorated by Major General Fry, commander of the 2nd Division, for quick action disposing of a Chinese “potato masher” grenade. In spite of great personal risk, he dug the grenade out of a trench with his bare hands and threw it over his shoulder just as it exploded. His actions saved the lives of three fellow soldiers.
Other military decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal with Japan clasp, the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with three bronze service stars. Combat Infantryman Badge, United National Service Medal, and Expert Badge with Rifle Bar.
He married his childhood sweetheart, Margarete E. Ganglfinger on July 18, 1953, in Oak Park, Ill. They moved to Maine in 1970, and finally settled in Wiscasset in 1999.
He was a master electrician and worked on commercial, marine, and residential projects throughout Maine. He retired in 1996.
He enjoyed bowling, singing in barbershop quartets, hunting, and flower, vegetable and herb gardening.
Gerald is predeceased by his wife who died in 2001; and a brother, Ronnie Miller of Stickney, Ill. who died in 2006.
He is survived by three sons, Mitchell D. Miller and wife Donna of West Bath, Timothy S. Miller and wife Suzanne of Germany, and Kevin P. Miller of Bath; two daughters, Pamela L. Gordon and husband John of Woolwich, and Tinamarie White and husband Aubrey of Virginia Beach, Va.; sister, Patricia Romain of Tennessee; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and special neighbors, Mike and Jody Brown of Wiscasset.
Visitation 1-2 p.m., Fri., Feb. 27, at David E. Desmond & Son Funeral Home, 638 High St., Bath. Funeral service 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by David E. Desmond & Son Funeral Home, Bath.
