Marvin Miller

Marvin Miller

February 19, 1942 - March 08, 2024

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Obituary

MADISON - Marvin Leroy “The Donutman” Miller, age 82, of Madison, Wis., passed away on March 8, 2024.  He was born on Feb. 19, 1942, in Appleton, Wis.  Marvin, known for his visionary spirit and unwavering dedication to his family, was an American patriot who proudly served our nation in the United States Navy from 1960 - 1964.


Marvin was a distinguished Madison business leader and entrepreneur, notably as the founder of the award-winning and esteemed Greenbush Bakery.  Renowned for his troubleshooting skills, there was no “fix-it” challenge Marvin couldn’t conquer.  He delighted in entertaining loved ones with his captivating stories and jokes, imparting his cherished “Marvisms” to all who crossed his path.


Marvin is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara Miller; daughter, Lisa (Jeff) Carlson; son, Christan (Kathryn) Miller; grandchildren, Taylor (Renee) Carlson, Jordan (Olivia) Carlson, Lauren Miller and Harrison Miller; great-grandson, Bowen Carlson; and brother, Gilbert Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ethel Miller.


A visitation in Marvin’s honor will take place on Sunday, March 17, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison.


In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made by all those touched by Marvin by telling at least two people of their joy with Greenbush Bakery donuts, as per Marvin’s wishes.


Marvin’s family graciously thanks Fresenius Kidney Care Sun Prairie, SSM Health Dean Medical Group, Agrace HospiceCare and Gunderson Funeral Home for their compassionate care and love of Marvin.


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420



Events

17
Visitation
Sun Mar 17, 2024 @ 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
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Marvin
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Gunderson Funeral Home
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Mark Condon
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Marv was a force of nature. A good man who would go out of his way to help. He and Barb were our neighbors for eight plus years on Weber Drive, and Mary Lou and I treasured the friendship. Stories, jokes, gentle ribbing...always laughing and smiling is how I will remember Marv. and making other's laugh. And what he did with Greenbush Bakery demonstrates his intuitive entrepreneurial skills. He was a cobbler and handyman of rare ability. Knowing him was both a pleasure and an honor. Rest in peace Mark Condon
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Mary Lou Condon
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I echo Mark's thoughts and sentiments about our lives having been so much richer for having had the Millers as neighbors and great friends. "Marvelous" was never at a loss for a story or joke to tell, and his positive outlook and joy for life was contagious. Shortly after the eastside bakery was opened, Marv gave me the tour, hardly able to keep from bursting with pride. So well-earned and rightfully his to take pride in. Family was everything to Marv, and he couldn't have been more proud of anything in the world than he was of that. I'm sure he's keeping things hopping up there. 😇😂 Mary Lou Condon
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Paul Sever
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My wife Beth and I first met Marv and Barb when we bought our first home on Weber Drive which would have been 1988. Two things stand out in the five years we lived there. Marv was always watching over our home when we were away. I'm sure he did that for all the neighbors but we were right across the street. It was not unusual to come home to find one of his cars parked in our driveway or to find the driveway cleared of snow. The second thing is he taught me many things, especially how to grill bratwurst the "Wisconsin" way. That bratwurst method has drawn raves throughout the decades. Marv was a true treasure who will not be forgotten. I pray daily for the repose of his soul. Eternal rest grant unto Marvin O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
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Peter Thiel
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I Loved the video tribute to Marvin. Thank you for creating it and sharing. My favorite memory of Marvin is when he sent a huge shipment of Greenbush Bakery Fritters to his cousin Peter in Appleton. I happened to be visiting around that time and Was blown away with the impact of this gesture. These fritters were as big as your face and there were 15 - 20 of them! They were happily and generously shared with all his Appleton cousins as well as Peters children and even grandchildren who were lucky enough to be on hand. Cheers to Marvin for his winsome spirit and lively conversations always. Lisa (Thiel) Campbell
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Debbie Beich
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I was lucky to have met Marvin at the Regent St shop. We had such delightful conversations. He truly eas a joyful person.

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