Evelyn LaVell Miller

Evelyn LaVell (Haan) Miller went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, after a long battle with dementia. She passed peacefully, surrounded by love.

Evelyn was born on July 26, 1941, in the Aplington, Iowa area to Fred Haan and Mable Matilda (Hanawalt) Haan. She spent her early years attending a country elementary school and later graduated from Aplington High School.

On October 3, 1959, Evelyn married the love of her life, James Lee Miller. Together, they made their home in Osage, Iowa, where they lovingly raised four daughters. Evelyn worked in the optical department at the Osage Clinic, where she earned her optical certification and served patients with kindness and care until her retirement.

A woman of deep faith, Evelyn was an active member of the Osage Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. She found great joy in teaching Sunday School and participating in women’s ministry groups, always eager to share God's love with others.

Jim and Evelyn enjoyed many adventures together, especially their cherished trips to their cabin on Little Long Lake, where they made countless memories with family and friends. Evelyn also delighted in crocheting, sewing, reading, and baking — but her greatest joy came from being "Grandma." She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Evelyn is lovingly remembered by her husband, Jim, and their daughters: Debra Williamson (Mike Wihlm), Cynthia (Spencer) Funk, Sharon (Dan) Steele, and Pamela (Peter) Berg. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Tera (Malcolm) Schenker, Tyrel (Briana) Williamson, Levi (Amanda) Funk, Chet (Nicole) Funk, Tayler Steele, Johann (Rachael) Steele, Kolby (Jenna) Berg, and Kendra (Seth) Plendl; along with 23 and counting great-grandchildren. A daughter adopted in love, Bonnie (Styles) Hoier. Sisters Faye Morhing and Blythe Gienau.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; her mother-in-law Katherine Miller; sister, Marge Nisley; grandson, Trevor Williamson.

A memorial service will be held on Friday June 6, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Hoff Celebrations – Chapion Chapel in Osage. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. A burial will be held at a later date at the Osage Cemetery.

Though we grieve her passing, we rejoice in knowing that Evelyn is now fully healed and resting in the arms of Jesus — the One she faithfully served throughout her life. Her legacy of love, faith, and devotion will continue to shine through all who knew and loved her.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements.