Barbara Miller Obituary

Barbara Jean Miller CHARLESTON - Her passing occurred peacefully in Charleston, South Carolina, where she and her husband, Joe, have been living for the last seven years. Her family was at her side. Born Barbara Jean Kruesel in Spokane, Washington, Barbara was one of four children born to her parents, Esther and Paul Kruesel. Doris Appleton, Anita Wood, and Paul Kruesel, Jr. all pre-deceased her. Barb met her husband, Joseph S. Miller, in Spokane, and they were married there in 1947 after Joe returned from WWII. They moved to Franklin Park, IL., a suburb of Chicago, shortly after and the two were inseparable for their nearly 74 years of marriage. In Franklin Park, Barb worked at Fastener Corporation for 36 years, rising through the ranks to become part of their management team, all while busying herself with raising a family. In Chicago, Barb and Joe raised their two children, David and Deborah. David's professional career as a State Farm agent is in Chicago and he is married to Laura M. Fischer. Deborah is retired after teaching at the College of Charleston for over three decades. Barbara's life-long passion was gardening, with an always blooming back yard. She was a Master Gardener and helped in shaping what the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are today. Barbara always gave generously of her time. From Cub Scout Den Mother to family organizer, she was Secretary of the Italian Catholic Federation at St. Gertrude's church, supported her children through college, and was active with friends in her hobbies. Over those many years of marriage, Barb and Joe managed to visit over 30 countries. They enjoyed both the cultures and friendships made, and kept, along the way. A wonderful spouse to Joe, a great mother to David and Deborah, her life's impact on family and friends will continue long after her death. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and nephews throughout the United States. Special thanks to the staff at Ashley River Plantation Facility for the love and care given to Barbara during her stay and also during her final days. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 11:00am at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church located at 5 St. Teresa Drive, Charleston, SC. 29407. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN., 38105. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston