Samuel “Sam” Miller

Obituary

Samuel “Sam” Carl Miller was born May 13, 1950, in New Ulm, to Carl and Sophie (Schmidgall) Miller. Sam was the youngest of 3 children. He received his education in Winthrop and was a graduate of the Winthrop High School class of 1968. He furthered his education at tech school in Mankato, graduating in 1970.

In May 1972, Sam volunteered to serve in the United States Army Reserves. He was honorably discharged in 1976. Sam started his career working for Telex, then later worked at Messner Farms and retired from HTI as a Senior System Analyst after 24 years in 2009.

Sam met Sandra Quast in October 1981, when they began their journey. On September 24, 1983, they were united in marriage and shared nearly 42 years together. The couple was blessed with 5 children: Russell, Candice, Laura, Amanda and Roxanna.

In his earlier years he enjoyed dirt bikes, bowling, softball and music. Later in life he enjoyed shooting pool, playing cards, games, go-karts, camping, fishing, golfing, and of course target shooting where he could impress anyone by shooting from the hip! He also enjoyed flying his Piper airplane, and he shared many stories of trips and adventurous moments from his time in the air. Through all these endeavors he had a great love for the outdoors, especially hunting and being a MacGyver of everything. As a great storyteller, Sam had a way of bringing his adventures to life, captivating those around him. “There’s old pilots and bold pilots, but no such thing as an old, bold, pilot”. In retirement you could find him helping neighbors with seasonal farming, gardening, tackling his many “to-do” lists or crafting and creating projects in his woodshop with passion.

A man of deep faith which was above all things and a love for family. Sam belonged to the Apostolic Christian Church in Winthrop. Reading the Bible, praying, singing hymns, church fellowship and morning Bible studies and helping others when able. He and Sandy were baptized together on March 28, 2021. He was surrounded by the love of his children and grandchildren, who were the light of his life. His home and shop were showered with pictures of his children and grandchildren, and he showcased many of the cards he received as a testament to the joy they brought him.

Sam passed away peacefully at his home in Winthrop on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the age of 75 years. Blessed be his memory.

Sam is survived by his Wife, Sandy; Children & their families, Russell (significant other, Beth) Miller, Lydia, Ava, Brayden & Colten; Candice (Andrew) Lieffring, Ethan (Kylee), Jude & Tate; Laura Miller, Aksana & Olivia; Amanda (Kenneth) Forst, Rozlynn & Vivian; Roxanna Miller; and 7 great grandchildren. Sister, Myrtle (Vern) Gieseke; Siblings-in-law, Doug (Connie) Quast; Deb (Brian) Draeger; Brian (Rosy) Quast; And many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Sophie Miller, In-laws, Milo and Viola Quast; Brother, Charles Miller; Sister-in-law, Carol Miller.

On behalf of our entire family, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the tremendous support we have received in memory of Sam Miller. Your thoughts, prayers, and every act of kindness—from a loving word to a warm meal—have meant more to us than we can ever say. It is in moments of profound sorrow that you truly feel the kindness of others, and we will always remember the compassion you have shown us.