James "Jim" Lee Miller

James Lee “Jim” Miller, 88, of Osage, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, September 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on March 22, 1938, in Aplington, Iowa, to Johann “Joe” Miller and Katherine (Schoneman) Miller. He spent his childhood in Aplington, where he met the love of his life, Evelyn LaVell Haan. The two were united in marriage on October 3, 1959, and together they made their home in Osage, where they raised their four daughters.

As a teenager, Jim learned the trade of carpentry. After moving to Osage, he worked as an electrician until his retirement in 1996. Retirement, however, never meant slowing down for Jim. He was always working on a project, whether large or small, and was happiest when he was building, repairing, or creating something with his hands. Among his many accomplishments, Jim built the family home in the country, including the gazebo that has become a familiar and admired landmark along the trail to Spring Park.

Jim had two great passions in life: hunting and fishing. True to his independent and resourceful nature, his love of hunting eventually led him to open his own gun shop and develop his skills as a gunsmith. His love of fishing took him north to Minnesota, where he built a cabin on Little Long Lake. The cabin became a special gathering place where countless adventures were shared and cherished memories were made with friends and his ever-growing family.

Above all, Jim treasured his family. He will be lovingly remembered by his four daughters, Debra Williamson (Mike Wihlm), Cynthia (Spencer) Funk, Sharon (Dan) Steele, and Pamela (Peter) Berg; his 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; and his 24 and counting great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a daughter adopted in love, Bonnie (Styles) Hoier; his sister, Connie Buus; and sisters-in-law, Faye Morhing and Blythe Gienau.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evelyn; his parents, Joe and Katherine Miller; two brothers Norman and Floyd; one sister Jean; and his grandson, Trevor Williamson.

Jim will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his independent spirit, his love of the outdoors, and, most of all, his devotion to his family. The many things he built with his hands—and the countless memories he built with those he loved—will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Grace Lutheran Church, Osage, Iowa.

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