Douglas Ray Miller
July 20, 1951 - November 07, 2019
Obituary
BARNEVELD -- Douglas Ray Miller, age 68, returned his spirit to the universe on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019. He was born on July 20, 1951, in Clayton, Ill., the son of Ray and Alice (Cole) Miller.
Douglas married Bonnie Isaacson on Aug. 14, 1976. According to his first-grade teacher, Doug “lived in a world of his own making.” For those lucky enough to be invited into that world, his big dreams, songs, stories, generous spirit, boundless humor, and open heart left indelible imprints. A professional “passer-on” of tradition, tales, and tunes, Doug devoted his life to creating places to bring people together. Doug made deeply spiritual connections with all he met, whether conversing on a prairie with a red-tailed hawk or on a stage via a microphone.
Doug’s family was a great pride of his life. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; daughter, Molly (Brent) Bilse; two sons, Nate (Becky Bohr) and Jeremiah (Kelly) Miller; four grandchildren, Tegan, Isaac, Lena, and Owen; sisters, Marilyn Miller and Rhonda Hillyer; brother, Gary Miller; and many extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and grandmother, Lena Marshall.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Camacho Mt. Horeb
Funeral & Cremation Care
500 N. Eighth Street
(608) 437-5077
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Memories
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Heather Dunne
Other •
Thinking of you, Molly, and your entire family during this difficult time. Your smile and fabulous sense of humor are so contagious, I can only imagine you inherited that partly from your dad! May beautiful memories of him fill your heart and provide you with some comfort! With deepest sympathy, Heather Dunne.
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John Loula
Other •
Jay and Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss. Everyone who knew Doug loved him. You are in my prayers. John Loula
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Kathy Strom
Other •
Doug was a shining light and a blessing in this world. He was a catalyst for so many wonderful, life-enriching things through the years—uplifting, enlightening, delighting, inspiring countless people wherever he went. He brought people together and changed lives. He brought joy in so many ways: Through his own music, though the activities and programs he brought about, through the music lessons and workshops he offered that allowed many of his students to spread that joy in a ripple effect throughout the rest of their lives. So, Doug's legacy lives on through all who were impacted by him. I often wished I had pen & paper on hand to write down the profound things he'd spontaneously say, even in the most casual of moments. And fond memories of his quick wit still make me laugh and smile. He was a cherished and beloved friend who will always occupy a very special place in my memories and in my heart. He was a great man with a kind heart, a gentle spirit—a beautiful soul. Bonnie, Molly, Jay, and Nate—I'm so very sorry for your deep loss. Heartfelt love and prayers of comfort go out from me and my family to you and yours.
~ Kathy Strom
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Juel Ulven
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I first met Doug in 1975 when he was the founder and guiding spirit of the "Libertyville School of Folk & Old Time Music" at David Adler Cultural Center. At the time I was founding "Fox Valley Folklore Society" and working with Emily Friedman on "Come For To Sing" Folk music magazine. Doug was a friend, Mentor and leading light and spirit to many including myself. He will be missed by many in the Folklife community but his songs and the influences he sowed with students, audiences and friends keep his memory and spirit alive. My heartfelt condolences go out to Bonnie and the Family.
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Debi Morton
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Dearest Bonnie, Jay, Molly and Nate: We are so sorry for your loss. Doug was an inspirational individual and created so many opportunities for us to experience music, dance, food of all cultures. He created community and open dialogue to enrich us all. We will miss him and his influences. Sending love to you. Debi and Michael.
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Lora Lee
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Dear Bonnie and J: I am so sorry for your loss. Doug was very special to me and to all the people who met him at Folklore Village. He was such a happy, inspiring fellow, and I'll always remember him with fondness. By the way, the picture of him on this website is a wonderful representation of Doug's personality and it makes me smile (and cry at the same time). Lora Lee