Robert Joseph Miller was born on July 22, 1947, to Sevilla (Sue) Smith Miller and Mont Miller in their rural home near Paden and Prague, close to Keokuk Falls. Growing up in a large family with nine siblings, Robert experienced a childhood filled with love and closeness as they frequently moved between Oklahoma and California in pursuit of seasonal work.

Though he was on track to graduate high school but Robert felt a deep sense of duty when he saw three of his brothers serving in the military as the Vietnam War escalated. Unable to stand by while they fought, he volunteered to join the Army on December 17, 1968, enlisting in Company C, Battery 1/14th, as part of the Field Artillery.

At that time, Robert's brother Edward was already in Vietnam, while their oldest brother Monte was stationed in Germany. Tragically, Robert's brother Wayne was also deployed to Vietnam, where he would later lose his life in a helicopter crash. During his own military service, Robert faced unimaginable challenges; he endured the loss of his father, which brought him home for the funeral. It was during this time that he suffered a severe car accident, resulting in significant burns on his back and ongoing physical pain.

The emotional toll of Vietnam was heavy. Robert grappled with survivor's guilt, haunted not only by the loss of his comrades but especially by the death of his brother in combat. His daughter recalls how her father often wrestled with the belief that he could be forgiven for the actions he took during the war. Through many heartfelt conversations, he ultimately found solace and redemption, thanks to the unwavering faith of his mother and the persistent prayers of his wife and daughter.

Robert married Donna Rae Nottnagel on September 9, 1977, after meeting her a year prior. A passionate enthusiast of hot rods, he was captivated by Donna Rae's spirit. They were inseparable from the start. Their house was the fun house all the cousins would go and stay in the summer. They enjoyed 47 years of marriage.

Upon returning from Vietnam, Robert sought help for his PTSD but found a system that didn't understand his struggles, leaving him feeling isolated and reluctant to seek assistance again. It wasn't until his daughter began working at the VA, along with encouragement from his brother Edward, that he returned for the support he needed. Although the journey was challenging, Robert worked hard to manage his trauma, striving to be a loving father, husband, and grandfather.

Robert dedicated over 30 years to General Motors, where he worked until their Oklahoma plant closed. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Donna Rae Miller; his daughter, Erica Elliott, and son-in-law Wesley Elliott; as well as his grandchildren: Ashley Van Meter and her husband Kyle, Dylan Elliott and Lacy, Nick and Lindsey Elliott. He is also survived by six great-grandchildren, with another on the way; along with his brother Monte Miller and Lenoard Miller and his wife Darla and a sister Elaine Speer, Sister-In-Law Betty Miller and lots of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Robert Joseph Miller will be remembered for his strength, love for his family, and the profound impact he had on those around him. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.