The industry lost a great one when Deryl August Miller passed away peacefully at his home in Grandora, Sask., on Oct. 19.
Miller was born and raised in Saskatoon.
During his childhood, he spent all his free time at the Miller Brothers feedlot with his dad, sometimes working or riding horses with his friends. He showcased his riding skills and won many ribbons at gymkhana competitions. He quit school at a young age and went to work at the stockyards under the guidance of his uncle, Bill Miller, and his future father-in-law, Pat Toderian, where he learned the trade. That was the start of his lifelong career.
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His first business venture was a partnership with his friend, Glen Davidson. They bought a few steers, rented some pasture and were in business. His career evolved over the years with many business associates in all aspects of the industry (buying, selling, and trucking cattle and horses). Most recently, he owned and operated Miller Livestock Order Buy Co. Ltd., employing 20 people. Miller knew cattle, but more importantly he knew people. His suppliers and customers across the country were all treated as friends.
Miller met his wife Mary-Jane Toderian at his cousin’s wedding in 1977 and the romance blossomed at the stockyards. They married in 1983 and were blessed with their son, Dustin, in 1990. Miller and Mary-Jane graciously opened their home to Miller’s nephew, Michael, and mother-in-law, Julie, who both lived with them for many years.
When it came time to relax, you could find Miller either visiting with family and friends, trail riding at his cabin by the creek, or having a drink on the beach in Mexico.
Miller was predeceased by his parents August and Myrtle Miller. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary-Jane; son, Dustin Miller; nephew, Michael Allberg; sister Debra (Norman) Goertzen; niece, Shelly Goertzen (daughters, Alyshia, Kelsey, Shawna); niece, Cheryl Champagne (daughters Brenna, Jasmin, Jaeda); as well as a large network of extended family, colleagues and friends. He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him as he touched the lives of many with his love and generosity.
Miller was a good neighbour and well-respected in the neighbourhood. Whether they had purebred or commercial cattle in Saskatchewan, everybody knew him and knew he was a man of his word. You don’t hear the term “salt-of-the-earth” much any- more but that was definitely Deryl Miller. Deryl, you have left a hole in our hearts, and we will miss you!
