Phillip J. Miller, 89, of Huntley, died peacefully on October 24, 2026.
Phillip "Phil" was born on July 10, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Clarence and Anna (Kluczynski) Miller. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. On October 4, 1975, he married Jean Marie Krolik. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage, they blended their families and in doing that, they created their own, special, loveing family while building a beautiful life centered around love.
Phil had an adventurous spirit and a zest for life. Never one to shy away from excitement, he enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime skydiving adventure, never turned down an opportunity for a round of golf and always embraced new experiences. He was an avid Chicago Bears and White Sox fan while being a devoted enthusiast of John Wayne and classic Western movies. Phil had a wonderful sense of humor and was known as quite the jokester, always ready with a laugh or a good story. Above all, his greatest joy was his family; whom he truly loved unconditionally. He treasured every moment spent with his beloved wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Phil was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jean Marie Miller; his children, Scott (Laurel) Miller, Mark (Debbie) Miller, Jeannette (John) Collins, John (Donna Merritt) Miller, Donna Miller, and Allison (Joe) Zawacki; and his cherished grandchildren, Phillip, Joseph, Amanda, Cassandra, Miranda, Janelle, Mary, Caitlin, Meghan, and Mark.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Anna Miller; his brothers, William "Bill" and Clarence Miller; his grandson, Anthony; and his daughter-in-law, Selene.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., all at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. Burial will follow at Huntley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Huntley Animal House Shelter.
For further information, please contact DeFiore Funeral Home at 847-515-8772. Online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
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My Deepest Sympathy. He was my Father-in-law and will be missed. He was a kind, funny, and giving man. Love you
We send big hugs and deepest condolences. You are all in our prayers. 🕊️