Obituary of George Emmerson Miller

Dr. George E. Miller passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at the age of 89 years. George held close ties with family, colleagues and friends. He grew up in Elk Point, son of Dr. Fred/Cora Miller. He attended the University of Alberta, receiving B.Sc. and MD degrees, and was a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity. During WWII, he was a Captain in the Canadian Medical Corps. Post-war, he specialized in cardio-thoracic surgery at the Mayo Clinic, and also obtained a M.Sc. in surgery from the University of Minnesota. George was instrumental in pioneering open-heart surgery in Calgary. Located at the Grey Nun’s Holy Cross Hospital, his own and others’ efforts produced a flagship program. His practice extended across all Calgary hospitals. He was a fellow of both the American and Canadian College of Surgeons, and Prof. Emeritus, U. of Calgary. George retired in 1993, leaving a lasting legacy to Calgary, Southern Alberta and beyond. George was active in international relief, serving on the executives of Alberta Cansave and Child Reach. He was also a long-time member and Elder of Grace Presbyterian Church. In his retirement, he provided volunteer cardiac counselling at the Kerby Centre. George’s skill as a surgeon and devotion to mankind are legendary. In 2002, the City of Calgary honoured him with the Grant MacEwan Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr Miller is a descendant of the Millers of Glenlee Scotland. The crest is a “blessing hand” and motto “manent optima coelo” (the best awaits in heaven). George is survived by his beloved wife Marilyn, with whom he shared sixty-five beautiful years of marriage, and their children; Hugh/Margaret Miller (Sophia), Bruce/Morgan Miller (George, Patrick, Joanna), Dr. John Miller and Dr. Nick/Anne Mohtadi (Alexander, Geoffrey, Olivia), for whom he was a wonderful father and grandfather. He is also survived by his brother Dr. Richard Miller and sister, Anne Crane, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by his sister, Joanne Ramsbottom and brothers, Dr. James (KC) and Hugh Miller. Funeral Services will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church (1009 – 15th Avenue S.W.) on Friday, June 26, 2009 at 11:00 a.m In living memory of Dr. George Miller, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.