Final Salute

FARMER CITY – Carlos Oris Miller, 85, of Farmer City went to be with his Lord and savior Friday, April 7, 2023, at Carle Foundation Hospital.

Oris was born on Nov. 23, 1937, in White Heath, to Ersa and Mervin Miller. He was married to Mary Cockrell on Nov. 24, 1957. She precedes him in death. They nearly reached the incredible milestone of 65 years together.

Oris is survived by two children, Mark (Laurie) Miller of Sidney and Sandy Fitzgerald of Urbana. He was blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they were a source of great joy in his life. Oris had eight grandchildren, Penny, Jamey, Shawn, Tony, Christopher, Patrick, Shannon and Seth; and nine great-grandchildren.

Oris was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary; parents; brother, Charles; sister, Atha; son-in-law, Richard; and grandchildren, Jamey and Patrick.

Oris spent eight years in the U.S. Navy Seabees and was very proud to serve his country in this way. He was also an incredibly talented woodworker. Oris worked at Alloy Engineering and Casting in Champaign for many, many years. His achievement of becoming a master pattern builder led him to the position of foreman over the patterns shop. At one point in his career, Oris left Alloy to partner with longtime friends and open a John Deere lawn and garden store in Urbana, selling lawn/garden tractors, toys and other John Deere merchandise. After enjoying that opportunity, he returned to Alloy and worked there until he retired in January 2000.

Oris’ woodworking craftsmanship was admired and enjoyed by his family, and he made and shared many wonderful items. These will be treasured.

Oris’ love for John Deere was evident to anyone who knew him. He and Mary attended the Old Thresher’s Reunion in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, for over 35 years, camping and enjoying the large tractor show. One of Oris’ tractors was purchased by a good friend, restored and was on display at Mt. Pleasant last year. Unfortunately, illness prevented them from seeing it at Mt. Pleasant, but seeing the pictures brought him such happiness.

Participating in the Antique Tractor show in Penfield for over 30 years was another great joy for both of them.

Oris enjoyed a happy and blessed life and lived it to the fullest. He and Mary spent their younger years camping with their children and later enjoyed traveling across the country in their motorhome. They spent an amazing summer in Alaska, and for a number of years, they wintered in Mississippi and Alabama. Oris and Mary spent the last 65 years of their lives traveling this journey together, side by side, and each always supporting the other. Their devotion knew no bounds. They are together again.

Oris faced his life-ending circumstances with the same quiet dignity, strength and faith that he did life. He fought with everything he had, but in the end was ready to join his beloved Mary. Oris was a man of few words, but the love in his heart for family and friends knew no bounds. He will be so very missed.

There will be no formal funeral services, but Oris wished that his ashes be spread over water. In lieu of sending flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Masonic Lodge in Farmer City, where he was a longtime member. Thank you very much.

Published by The News-Gazette on Apr. 21, 2023.