Henry “Fred” Miller, 93, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Franciscan Health - Michigan City.
A funeral service celebrating Fred’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral chapel. A private burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Michigan City.
Fred was born on July 14, 1931, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Henry and Belle (Culbert) Miller. On June 20, 1953, he married Susan (Mathias) Miller in Michigan City. They shared 58 wonderful years of marriage until Susan's passing on August 19, 2011.
Their three children survive him: Kerry (Larry) Skibo of Naperville, Illinois; Rick (Debbie) Miller of Highland, Indiana; and Pat (Erin) Miller of Carmel, Indiana. Fred was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren- Larry Skibo Jr., David Skibo, Kreg (Jen) Miller, Jen (Derek) McDaniel, Kevin (Fendy) Miller, Caitlin (Peter) Back, and Delaney Miller- and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Susan, his grandson, David Skibo, and special friend, Judy Ringo.
Fred honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. A man of deep faith, he was a devout 50-year member of the former St. Andrews-by-the-Lake Episcopal Church, where he served as a deacon.
Fred spent over 20 years as a marketing officer at Citizens/Horizon Bank. He also served as director of development at Purdue North Central for eight years before retiring. His professional life reflected his commitment to community engagement, education, and public service.
Fred and Sue shared a passion for world travel, exploring many corners of the globe together. Fred was a gifted artist, capturing the beauty of their adventures in his paintings. Among all his works, though, he had a special fondness for painting scenes of his beloved Lake Michigan.
Fred's greatest joy came from spending time with his cherished family and friends. He and Sue were known for their warm hospitality, always eager to host gatherings and share Fred's perfect Old Fashioned cocktails. Fred's love and generosity touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and creativity.
Fred was passionate about giving back to his community. He and Susan were known and admired for their tireless volunteerism. Together, they supported many causes, including the Therapy Center for Preschool Children (now the Barker Enrichment Center). Fred was active in the Michigan City Exchange Club and volunteered for years with the Salvation Army, organizing Thanksgiving meals and ringing the bell during the Christmas season.
He held leadership and advisory roles in numerous organizations, including the Elks, the Memorial Hospital Board, the Unity Foundation of La Porte County, the Duneland Health Council, and the endowment committee for the Michigan City Public Library, United Way of La Porte County, the Barker Commission, the Main Street Association, and the King Jones Memorial Scholarship Foundation. He also served on the Chancellor’s Advisory Board at Purdue University North Central and was honored with the President’s Council Award for loyalty and generous support.
Fred was also a docent at the Lighthouse Museum and a volunteer at the historic Barker Mansion, further demonstrating his dedication to local history and civic pride.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Unity Foundation of La Porte County (422 Franklin St., Suite C, Michigan City, IN 46360), Dunebrook, Inc. (7451 W. Johnson Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360), the Salvation Army of Michigan City (1201 Franklin St., Michigan City, IN 46360), or Homeward Bound (P.O. Box 9214, Michigan City, IN 46361).
To sign the guest book and leave condolences online, visit our website at
www.otthaverstock.com.
