Meryl Edwin Miller

Meryl Edwin Miller, age 96, of Colon, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, at Three Rivers Health Hospital.

He was born on March 4, 1930, in Dayton, Ohio, the son of Ralph and Stella (Alford) Miller. After proudly serving his country in the United States Navy, Meryl married the love of his life, Marilyn Black, in September 1951. 

Meryl was blessed to experience the gift of love twice in his lifetime. He shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Marilyn, building a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories until her passing on May 21, 2013. In the years that followed, he found love again with Johanna Jawor, who brought joy, companionship, and happiness to his life over the last ten years.

Meryl enjoyed a remarkable career as a mechanical engineer. He spent many years working for NCR in Dayton, Ohio, where his work eventually took him to California before returning to Dayton. In 1963, he was recruited to work for Datanetics and later Duralith, where he became an innovator in keyboard technology. Meryl was instrumental in the development of some of the first computer keyboards used by Steve Jobs before Apple became the technology giant it is today. Throughout his career, he was awarded several patents for his contributions to keyboard technology, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Following his retirement in 1990, Meryl and Marilyn fulfilled their dream of settling at beautiful Palmer Lake in Colon, Michigan, where Marilyn's family had long-standing roots. They would spend winters in Palm Springs, California.

Beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a licensed pilot who loved aviation, an avid student of American history, and enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. He found great joy in gardening, raising both beautiful flowers and abundant vegetable gardens. A true tomato enthusiast, he delighted in growing and enjoying many varieties of fruits, from prickly pear to pineapples. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved pet cats.

Those who knew Meryl will remember him for his incredible memory, captivating storytelling, sharp mind, and kind-hearted nature. He had a gift for sharing stories and making others feel welcome, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his children, Michele (J.P. Dorsa) Miller of Campbell, California, and Marc (Janet) Miller of Brentwood, Tennessee; his granddaughters, Megan (Todd) Foont of Riviera Beach, Florida, Alaetra Dorsa, and Caryn Shoemaker; his great-grandchildren, Piper Gray Foont, Easton Foont, and Addison Foont; his significant other, Johanna Jawor of Colon, Michigan; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Meryl was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Miller; his parents; and his siblings, Elmer Miller, Cliff Miller, Genevieve Miller, and Virginia Miller.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Meryl's life will be announced at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to your local humane society in Meryl's memory.

Ray Funeral Services has been entrusted with the care of Meryl and his family.