Charlton: William 'Gene' Miller, 75, of Charlton, MA passed away on Sunday, Nov. 24th surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves his wife of 16 1/2 years, Karen J. Zirpola-Miller; his son, Wesley Miller; his daughter, Jennifer K. Colognesi and her husband Anthony of Sturbridge; his brother, Gary Miller and his wife Laura of Lamars, IA; his granddaughter, Skye Miller and his two grandsons, Dominic Colognesi and Sebastian Colognesi.  He was predeceased by his brother, Greg Demaris in 2004 and his daughter, Jessica M. Miller in 2012.  He was born in Prineville, OR the son of William N. and Clara "Marie" (Floyd) Miller.  He proudly served two tours in the US Navy in the Vietnam War on the Midway aircraft carrier.  In September of 1971, he was awarded the "Vigilante of the Month" for his exemplary work ethic.

Gene received his bachelor's degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Oregon State University in 1977 and went on to work for General Electric and Toshiba for many years. On breaks from college, he worked as a logger and as a commercial salmon fisherman in Alaska.   Afterwards he owned and operated Mobile Med Transport, LLC. before retiring. He was always working to problem solve and even had two registered patents.

In 2006, he met the love of his life, Karen and they married in 2008.  Together they traveled and enjoyed time with family and friends. He enjoyed planning thoughtful adventures and even surprised Karen with a hot air balloon ride.  He was up for every tradition that Karen and Jenni threw at him, including walking all over the place to find the perfect Christmas tree and putting the ornaments on according to their specific directions.  He also truly enjoyed their family's annual Halloween parties. His costume was always a secret (and last-minute decision) but never failed to disappoint.  He was a good sport in anything they asked him to do and even participated and acted in several yearly 48 Hour film projects.

In 2011 when a tornado ravaged Massachusetts, Gene spent every weekend for months on end bringing his Bobcat and chainsaw to assist in the cleanup and rebuild structures and barns to reunite families with their beloved pets.  In doing this, he forged life-long friendships.

He lost a piece of his heart in 2012 when his beloved daughter, Jessie, whom he cared for so lovingly, passed away.  He and Karen enjoyed countless weekends with Jessie attending movies, dinners, going to concerts and sailing.

After retiring, Gene enjoyed handyman work.  From installing hardwood floors to electrical and plumbing work to rebuilding cherished family heirlooms, he found much satisfaction in helping others and was meticulous in his work.   He also loved to cook.  His Thanksgiving rolls and German chocolate cake were legendary.

He adored Jenni and Tony. He was beyond honored to walk Jenni down the aisle on her wedding day and lovingly assisted Tony in getting ready that day.  He did everything for his family with his whole heart.

After the loss of Jessie, Gene finally found new infinite joy in his grandsons. At the age of one, Dominic loved stars and so Gene took up woodworking and presented Dominic with a perfect wooden star, complete with an installed LED lightshow for Christmas.  Papa's stars cast a nightly glow on both Dominic and Sebbi and provide them comfort in the darkness. This gift was the first of many to his grandsons.  He made them a picnic table, Adirondack chairs and tables and custom designed and hand crafted all their playroom furniture.  He was with the boys multiple times a week to play, bring treats, read books, cuddle and teach them as he fixed almost everything that needed repair.  They went on countless adventures including the zoo, Disney on Ice, the airport diner, breakfast with Santa and Tower Hill lights to name a few.  His blue eyes would sparkle as he would sit and watch them in awe and pure love.

Gene was good at whatever he set his mind to and his amazing woodworking also included gorgeous tables, signs, wine boxes, plant stands and bird houses.  He enjoyed learning and teaching others in his new found craft.

Mr. Rogers always said to look for the helpers.  Gene was everything a helper should be.  If you needed help, he was quickly there to assist, looking for nothing in return.  He was selfless, generous and kind.  He showed us what the unconditional love of a husband, father, Papa and friend should look like. Our lives will never be the same without him, but we will forever be grateful for our time together.

A funeral Mass for Gene will be held on Friday, Dec. 13th, at 11:00am in Notre Dame Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 446 Main St., Southbridge.  Burial will follow in St. Anne's Cemetery, Sturbridge.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284  or  online at dana-farber.org/gift .  Please also consider a random act of kindness in his honor.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.