Dale E. Miller passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 63. Dale was born in East St. Louis, IL, on July 11, 1961, to the late Shirley (Roberts) and Kenneth Miller, Sr. In 2003, Dale united in marriage with his beloved wife, Karen (Carrillon) Miller, and together they lived a life filled with laughter and adventure.
In addition to his wife Karen, Dale is also survived by his daughters, Meagan Towata (Annie) and Janet Kohlbrecher (Jeff); his son, Zachary Miller; his grandchildren, Nyla Towata, Finley Miller, and Gracie Loepker. Also surviving are his siblings, Robert Miller (Tami), Robin Miller, David Miller (Susie), and Jimmy Miller (Jami); his mother-in-law, Carol Carrillon; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Gail Von Hatten (Don), Lynn Holden (Mark Bellm), Alan Carrillon, Dean Carrillon (Julie), Carleen Haselhorst (Jim) and numerous nieces and nephews.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Nathan Miller; his brother, Kenneth Miller Jr.; his father-in-law, Leonard Carrillon; and a brother-in-law, Gary Carrillon.
Professionally, Dale dedicated 42 years as a highly regarded mechanic at Laura Buick GMC, where he considered Jack and Laura Anderson and his family and all his past and present co-workers as his second family. Throughout his career, his expertise was recognized with multiple awards of excellence from GM. His commitment to his craft extended to his membership with the International Association of Machinists, District #9.
Dale’s life was not all work; when his children were younger he was very involved in their sports, whether as a coach or as their biggest fan, attending all practices and games and consistently practicing with them at home to improve their skills. Dale had a passion for the outdoors. He loved spending time in the woods deer hunting, on the water fishing, and camping under the stars. He always looked forward to a round of golf with family and friends. He also enjoyed riding his Gold Wing motorcycle, whether he was on a lazy Sunday ride or a long cross-country trip. For many years, Dale was a treasured member of a weekly bowling league where he bowled a few perfect 300 games. He prided himself in being the best Grandpa and enjoyed spending quality time with his granddaughters.
Friends and family are invited to visitation at Zieren Funeral Home, 1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at Zieren Funeral Home on Wednesday at 7:00 PM. Visitation will be held again at Zieren Funeral Home on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 9:00 – 10:30 AM with graveside services at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Carlyle at 11:00 AM.
Expressions of sympathy in memory of Dale Miller are suggested to ASPCA, Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, Disabled American Veterans, or to the American Cancer Society. Donations will be received through Zieren Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com .
