Jean Marie Miller

Jean Marie Miller, age 90 of Waseca, Minnesota, passed away comfortably on September 4, 2020.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; daughter, Rebecca; brothers: John and Henry Schmidt; and parents, George and Selma Schmidt.

Jean was born on May 17, 1930, she spent her childhood and teenage years in Janesville, Minnesota. After completing high school she attended Mankato State Teachers College where she earned her degree in elementary education and started her teaching career in Mantorville, Minnesota. Jean married Bob in 1953 and sadly, was widowed in 1958 when Bob died of cancer. She went on to raise their three children and completed two more years of college at Mankato State to continue her career in education. She loved teaching and retired after 25 years of service in the Waseca Public Schools.

Jean was known for her perseverance, kindness, strong faith and love for family and friends. She was an avid reader and skilled needle worker, generously making beautiful samples of Hardanger embroidery for her family. Always up for adventure, she traveled with family and friends to the corners of the United States and Europe in her retirement years. Jean gave back freely to the community always willing to help when asked. She volunteered at the Waseca Hospital, local hospice program and Sacred Heart Parish.

Jean is survived by her daughter, Lisa (Craig) Harvey; son, Doug (Vicki) Miller; grand-children: Laura (Joe) Friend, Emily (Joe) Tomes, Sam (Jess) Miller, Grant Miller, and Ellen Miller; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara (Allen) Deck; sister-in-law, Mary Jo (Randy) Patton; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Jean loved being in the company of others, her quiet and humble presence will be greatly missed by family and friends. We are so blessed to have her as our Mom and Grandma.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the American Cancer Society.

A private graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Kilkenny. Plans for a celebration of life will be announced when it is safe again to gather as a large group.