Herbert Michael Miller

Herb M. Miller, 53, of Cheney passed away April 26, 2016 at Holy Family Hospital. He was born May 25, 1962 in Seattle, WA to Michael and Mary Miller. He was the youngest of 13 siblings and was born with Down Syndrome. Herb resided north of Woodinville, graduated from Bothell High School in 1983, attended St. Brendan’s Catholic Church in Bothell, was active in Special Olympics and employed in a few jobs, his favorite being a cardboard bailer for the Volunteers of America in Everett. When that program closed, he worked in the community as a janitor for a Chevron Mini Mart. In June of 1998, Herb’s parents were moved to adult family homes and Herb moved in with his brother Aaron and Robin and their family whom he lived with until his death. At that time he also became involved with Friendship Adventures, an organization offering social opportunities for developmental and physical disabled adults. He loved a good dance. In June of 2006 the family moved to Cheney. They became active at Amazing Grace Fellowship where you would be greeted by Herb on a Sunday morning as he was handing you your bulletin. He became employed by the Artisans and again got to work at his favorite job, cardboard baling at Earthworks Recycling. He became acquainted with many of the paratransit drivers as he rode those buses back and forth to work. A couple days a week when he was not working, you could find him at the ARC community center around the pool table and hanging out with the girls. He was active with Cheney Parks and Rec Specialized Recreation playing softball, basketball and bowling and going on social outings, his favorite Christmas shopping and dinner. He was also involved with Shining Stars Inclusive Theatre and although he was only in the chorus, he would add a special spark as he would come up with some move to get a laugh from the audience and then repeat it over and over whenever he thought it would fit. Herb loved an audience, whether it was one person or 100 and would do what he could to get a reaction. A friend stated that Herb was a joyful noise. Herb is preceded in death by both of his parents and brothers Bert (Karen), Martin, and Mark (Suzan). He is survived by his brothers and their spouses, Aaron (Robin), Florian, Dennis (Diane), John (Betty), Frank (Helen), Conrad (Eva), Clem (Nola) and sisters Mary and Theresa along with many, many nieces and nephews. Viewing is Friday May 6 at 10 a.m. at Cheney Funeral Chapel, 1632 W. First St., Cheney. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at the Marshall Cemetery. All who would like to attend are welcome. Herb loved cows and so we will have a cow-themed celebration service Sat May 7 at 2 p.m. at Amazing Grace Fellowship, 416 W. Betz Rd, Cheney.

Herbert Michael Miller

May 25, 1962 - April 26, 2016