David Alan Miller, 70, of Stone Creek, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at Truman House in New Philadelphia, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born April 9, 1956, in Dover, David was the son of the late Paul K. and Betty O. (Dudley) Miller. Dave married his high school sweetheart, the former Lori J. Tharp, on March 7, 1977, and together they built a life centered around love, family, and lifelong memories.

Dave graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1974. He cherished spending summers on Lake Erie walleye and perch fishing at the family cabins, creating memories that would shape a lifelong passion for the water and the outdoors.

Dave shared a tremendous bond with his late father-in-law, Ray Tharp, and began his career working alongside him as a heavy equipment operator in the coal mines. He later went on to own and operate D&R Excavating and eventually retired from Thomson Electric. He was a proud member of IBEW Local #71.

Fishing remained one of Dave’s greatest joys throughout his life. Whether on Lake Erie with family or friends, he treasured every moment spent chasing walleye and perch. Dave never met a stranger and was known for striking up conversations with anyone he encountered. His warm personality, quick smile, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Dave also loved racing with his sons, whether drag racing or motorcycle racing along the East Coast. One of his proudest memories was supporting his son Blake during his successful high school wrestling career, which culminated in appearances at the state championships. Whatever his children or grandchildren were involved with, he was there supporting them. He was an avid Cleveland Indians fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team.

Above all else, Dave loved spending time with his wife, sons, grandchildren, and extended family. His love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those closest to him will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Dave will forever be cherished by his family including his wife, Lori; sons, Jeff (Missy) Miller and their children CJ, Dylan, Grace and Ally, Blake (Fiance, Ashley Hursey) Miller and their children Peyton, Jameson, Odin and Elise, and Ben (Dana) Miller and their children Tucker, Justin and Meghan; brothers, Dan (Kim Eick) Miller and Jon Miller; his mother-in-law, Glenna Tharp; his special sister-in-law, Jill (Mike) Cargnel; his brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ray (Brenda) Tharp and Judy Tharp; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in passing by his brother, Michael Miller; his brother-in-law, Mark Tharp; and his father-in-law, Ray Tharp.

A casual memorial gathering will be held in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. Chuck McBride will lead a service beginning at 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Memorial contributions in Dave’s memory may be directed to Tuscora Park Foundation, Attn: Trout Derby, 161 Tuscora Ave NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.