Rusty Miller FOUNTAIN CITY, IN -- Carl Russell "Rusty"

Rusty Miller FOUNTAIN CITY, IN -- Carl Russell "Rusty" Miller, of Fountain City, Indiana, made his final farewell after a long illness on Wednesday, March 26th, surrounded by his wife and family. He was born on February 3, 1953, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Robert and Phyllis (Crowe) Miller. One of five siblings, Rusty spent his early years exploring fishing holes, swimming in quarries, and defending his sisters from the neighborhood hooligans—though by many accounts, the Miller kids were the real rascals. Having lost their father at an early age, the bond between the siblings ran deep and remained strong throughout the years. In 1970, at just 17 years old, Rusty volunteered his service in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of SP5. After his military service, he earned his GED and attended Wright State University before beginning his career in the trades. In 1984, after a whirlwind romance he married Patty with their daughter Shannon arriving 4 years later. This love would span four decades. Rusty found great joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, returning time and again to Lake Erie, the Maumee River, and Brookville Lake to name a few. He made sure his only daughter knew how to properly cast a line. She pierced his ear with a hook only the one time. He also taught her the value of being outdoors—camping, boating, and hunting for morels each spring. Talented with his hands, Rusty was the family handyman and a gifted woodworker. His work is displayed in the homes of nearly every relative. He was a jack of all trades, though his special trait was his generosity, lending a hand to anyone in need. Throughout the years, he deeply appreciated his time spent at Lake Michigan, family fish fry’s and card nights, and towards the end of his life, his weekly visits with Jim and Walt. And finally, while Rusty's true love was his wife Patty, his heart was stolen with the birth of his two granddaughters who became his moon and stars. To him, family was everything. Tremendous and heartfelt thanks go to the friends and family who devoted their time and energy aiding in Rusty's care over the last years of his life, though Patty herself cared for him with an unmatched love and devotion. Rusty knew how blessed he was. Special thanks go to the wonderful team at Reid Hospice for their attentive care. Rusty is survived by his wife, Patty; daughter, Shannon Henderson (Cody), and granddaughters, Rooney and Louisa of Livingston, MT; brother, James Miller of Greenville, OH; sister, Julia Miller (John Allison) of Ann Arbor, MI; and sister, Mary Kay Michael (Mike Kennedy) of Greenville, OH; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Miller; mother, Phyllis Miller-Bryant; sister, Jean Marshall; and stepfather, Carmel Bryant. A Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be held on Sunday April 13 at 731 Magnolia Drive, Greenville, OH, with visitation and refreshments from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. The Smith-McQuiston & Webster Funeral Home, Fountain City, is assisting with arrangements.