Tom Miller

Described as hardworking, sarcastic, and deeply devoted to his family, Thomas Miller was a blessing in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he could be stubborn at times, he was also the kind of man who would go above and beyond to serve others. Nothing made Tom happier than holding his loved ones close. His faith formed the foundation of his life, and he faced every obstacle that came his way with unyielding determination. Already so greatly missed, Tom will be forever loved and remembered.

The late 1970s were some very influential years to be living in the United States of America. Tensions overseas contributed to a conflicted nation and a tumultuous political climate. In the world of entertainment, movies such as The Godfather were hugely popular, and technology was rapidly advancing, providing ways to make everyday life easier. It was during this exciting time that Thomas Keith made his entrance into the world. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on March 15 of 1979.

Growing up, Tom was a typical boy of his generation in many ways. He was a fun-loving kid, and as soon as he could drive, he discovered his passion for drag racing. Tom even got to race at the motor sports complex in Indianapolis. His parents took him on a memorable trip to Cozumel. He made the mistake of rinsing his toothbrush in the water, and wound up with Montezuma’s Revenge! However, the resort also sold him beer, which helped make up for it, even though he was only 14 at the time.

Tom attended Portage Schools and later Comstock High School. As a teenager, he got his first job working with both his father and grandfather at General Motors. They were proud to have three generations working together, and Tom used some of the money he earned to buy his beloved ’95 green Z28 Camaro. He graduated from Comstock High, eager to see what the future held.

Never one to shy away from hard work, Tom built a long and successful career for himself over the years. He was a longtime employee at Bradford White, where he poured over 20 years of dedicated work into the company. Tom was also a proud member of the United Auto Workers. He was a skilled welder and was often called upon to share his knowledge with young apprentices. Whatever Tom put his mind to, he would work relentlessly to achieve. He excelled at problem-solving, and he tackled every challenge head-on.

Of the many things Tom loved in life, he cherished his family above all else. He was overjoyed to welcome his three daughters, Autumn, Miller, and Summer “Charlie”, into his heart, and he thrived in his role as a father. Tom’s girls were his greatest pride and joy. He had fond memories of camping and canoeing with his daughters. They also participated in competitive mounted orienteering together, racing through the woods on horseback, sometimes for more than 20 miles.

In his free time, Tom enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and spending time in the great outdoors. Golfing was one of Tom’s favorite pastimes. He golfed in many work tournaments over the years, and he took to the greens at every opportunity. Tom liked fishing, and he was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions. He rarely missed a game, and everyone knew never to interrupt a game by calling him. Travelling was also full of adventures for Tom. He once traveled to Alaska with a friend. On the trip, his Honda XR75 ran out of gas, and he had to push it over a mile. Tom’s faith was one of his greatest priorities in life. He was an active member of Thornapple Valley Church in Hastings, attending Sunday services whenever he could. Tom strove to follow faithfully after the Lord in all aspects of life.

As friends and family gather to reflect on the life of Thomas Miller, it is easy to admire a man so full of grit, kindness, and love. He was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. Tom’s family was his greatest treasure, and he considered himself blessed to watch his family grow. His sharp sense of humor could bring light and laughter to any room, and his devotion to caring for others left an impact on all those near. Although he will be deeply missed, Tom leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever hold close to their hearts.

Thomas Miller of Dowling, age 46, died on December 6, 2025. Tom is survived by his daughters, Autumn, Aurora, and Summer; half-brothers, Ricky Gay and Bruce “Beans” Gay; grandma Viola Miller-Hogberg; and aunts, uncles, and many cousins. He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Robert Miller, and Thomas and Shirley Landells; mom, Terri Landells, step-dad, Rick Gay; aunt and uncle, Nancy Miller and Ken Miller.

Please join us at a Life Story Service at 12 PM on Friday, December 12, at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. Burial will follow at Mt. Ever Rest Memorial Park. A reception will be held at Comstock VFW after the burial. Celebrate Tom’s life online by sharing stories and photos on her dedicated web page at BetzlerLifeStory.com.