Mary Ellen Miller, 87

Mary Ellen Miller, 87, of Coeur d’Alene, passed away Thursday, April 19, 2012, with her family by her side. Mary Ellen was born Jan. 9, 1925, to Charles and Mary Muehlethaler in Huron, S.D.

In 1927, the family moved to Kootenai County and settled in Twin Lakes. Mary Ellen attended high school in Rathdrum and teaching school at Lewis and Clark Normal in Lewiston where she earned her teaching certificate. She worked at Farragut Naval Base during World War II and taught school in Sandpoint and Spirit Lake until 1949.

In 1946 she met the love of her life, Gene Miller. They were married in 1947 and went on to have three children and six grandchildren during their 64 years of marriage.

Mary Ellen’s primary focus in life was on her family. She supported her husband as he built a successful law practice and adored her children and grandchildren.

In addition to being a dedicated mother and wife, Mary Ellen was involved in her community. She was a member of several service organizations like the Elks Women’s Auxiliary, PEO and a local women’s sorority.

Mary Ellen is survived by her children, Patrick Miller (wife Renée Miller) and Kathleen Seppi (husband Brian Seppi); and grandchildren Tara Miller, Charles Miller, Bret Miller, Keith Miller, Justin Seppi and Nathan Seppi; and brother Charles Muehlethaler.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Miller and son Kirk Miller.

Funeral Mass will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2012, at St. Thomas Catholic Church.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of North Idaho and Mary Ellen’s caregivers Rose, Dolly, Joanna, Judy, Faith and Kathy for their skilled and loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to Hospice of North Idaho.