Robert “Bob” Miller, 72
Robert “Bob” Alan Miller, 72, of Brandon, peacefully passed away in his daughter’s home on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in Brandon. He was lovingly surrounded by his family and friends in his final days.
His memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023 at George Boom Funeral Chapel in Brandon. Graveside service with Military Honors will follow at 3 p.m. at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Falls.
The family invites friends for refreshments, fellowship, and memory sharing at the Brandon Steakhouse at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3.
Bob was born on June 12, 1951 in Sioux Falls, where his proud parents, Jerry and Ruby (Burfeindt) Miller, lovingly raised their son. He graduated from Washington High School in 1969.
Bob always knew he wanted to own a restaurant. He began working at Kirk’s Cafe when he was 15 and later worked at Stockyards Cafe. He was known for his impeccable work ethic and speed in the kitchen. This early experience served him well in the coming years.
On Sept. 5, 1970, he was united in marriage to Renee Spadino in Sioux Falls. They moved to Rapid City when Bob joined the U.S. Air force in 1971. During his time in the service, he was named Airman of the Year, was stationed in Alaska, and became a Staff Sergeant. In 1975 Bob and Renee’s daughter, Kari, was born. Later that year, Bob was honorably discharged and moved back to Sioux Falls. His restaurant expertise grew as he was a partner at the Red Lantern. In 1978, Bob and his family moved to Brandon, and he purchased the Brandon Steakhouse & Capri Lounge. This once failing business soon became a success story and a landmark of Brandon. In 1981 Bob and Renee’s son, JJ, was born. Bob always worked hard to ensure that his family was well provided for. In 1994 Bob became part owner of Skelly’s Pub in Sioux Falls, where he met Marie Schmidt. Bob and Marie were married in 1998 and cherished 25 years of marriage together.
Bob greatly enjoyed hunting pheasants, fishing for walleye, watching football, and playing golf. Bob and two of his good friends, Gene Johnson and Jerry Backer (The Three Amigos), shared many trips, laughs, and business ventures together. Bob was a quick-witted man who lived large and laughed much. But his greatest treasure was his family. Most notably, he’ll be remembered for his incredible generosity and willingness to help anyone in need, namely his faithful employees.
Grateful for having shared in Bob’s life are his wife, Marie; his children, Kari (Dan) Elliott and JJ Miller; his grandchildren, Logan and Abigail Elliott, Austin Swier, Ethan, Preston, Kinlee, and Kaylor Miller; and his great-grandchild, Michael.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Ruby Miller.
Bob was no stranger to hard times. So, if you’re there now, this is for you. “Better days ahead.” ~ Bob
For online condolences, visit georgeboom.com.
