Melvin Miller

Melvin Frederick Miller passed away the morning of May 15, 2017 in the loving care of the staff at Bright Star Senior Living Center, Madison, WI.

Melvin was born March 21, 1924 on a farm in Savanna, IL. He and his brother Merle would fish and hunt along the Mississippi River. Melvin graduated from Savanna High School in 1942 and then from North Central College in 1948 with a degree in chemistry. He and his sister, Lucille, enlisted together during WWII. Melvin trained at Camp Grant in Rockford and then served in the medical corps of the Third Army as they pushed the Nazis back to Germany. He won five medals for bravery and heroism. After the service, he married Ruth Eshelman. They had one son and then divorced. Melvin lived in the Chicago area and worked as a quality control chemist for Walgreen Drug for many years. Melvin loved to dance. He and his partner, Toshiko, were graceful and skilled dancers. He was a kind and generous person and paid the college expenses for his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Melvin is survived by his brothers, Merle Miller (Gwen) of Clinton, IA, Ed Miller of Rockford, IL and Gerald Miller (Norma) of Channahon, IL. He is also survived by his son, Fred Rehbein (Sheila), two grandchildren, Michael 'Ray' Rehbein (Michelle) and Melanie Marie Rehbein, one great-grandson, Devion Rehbein and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Frederick and Florence Miller, his brothers Donald, Herbert and Gene and sisters Lucille (Phinney), Doris (Dauphin) and Joann (Kaney), and his good friend, Toshiko Adams.

Melvin donated his body to science. It will used to train medical students at the University of Wisconsin. Gifts in memory of Melvin F Miller can be made payable to the UW Foundation-School of Medicine and Public Health Scholarship Fund, US Bank Lockbox 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278. Gifts to support medical student scholarships can also be made on-line. A memorial service will be announced later.

Cress Center
6021 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-8406