September 22, 1952 - December 07, 2020
Christopher Hack Miller was born September 22, 1952 and passed away December 7, 2020 Chris was born in Seattle, WA on September 22, 1952 to Mary Virginia (Walther) Miller and Charles “Jack” Miller and spent his early years in the Seattle and Bellevue area. He graduated from Newport High School, Bellevue, in 1970. After high school Chris delayed his college education and sought a little adventure by working in a variety of jobs and industries. He spent a year on a fishing boat off the coast of Alaska which was for the rest of his life a source of fond remembrance and great fish stories. The Miller family had a long history of involvement in the photography world, and Chris remained an enthusiastic photographer throughout his life. He worked in the family store his father opened in Wenatchee, WA in the late 1970’s, and occasionally did photographic work for businesses in the Spokane area after relocating to Spokane in the 1990s. One of his most cherished family stories was that of his grandfather, a professional newspaper photographer in the 1930s and 1940s, who was asked by the Chicago police force to take the first pictures of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in the gangland of that era. Chris enrolled in Gonzaga University, Spokane, in 1998 and completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fine Arts in 2001. A voracious reader, he continued his interest in art history and related subjects throughout his life. He loved classical music from an early age, and his sound system and his extensive collection of vinyl recordings were a source of pride and enjoyment for the entire family. Chris worked for many years in healthcare administration, retiring in 2018 for reasons of health. Not long after, he was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. He fought a hard and long battle with cancer to the end. He passed away at home with his family at his side. The family wishes to thank Dr. Travis Hughes M.D., for his care during the last few years. He was always an advocate for Chris, and Chris counted him as a true friend. Also, at this time the family extends their gratitude to Hospice of Spokane for the excellent nursing care Chris received during his final hours. Without them the family would not have been able to keep Chris at home; their assistance was an immeasurable blessing. Christ is survived by his spouse, Blaise Gartland, his son Aaron Miller, and his daughter, Laura Miller Ogden, son-in-law Ryan, his granddaughter Mariah Rachelle Ogden, and daughter Amanda Miller Herrick. Chris is also survived by his former spouse and mother of his three children, Sharlan Small Miller who was always a friend and support, and sisters, Catherine Miller-Manning, (Gary), Ellensburg, WA, and Patricia Ott, Wenatchee, WA. Cremation has already taken place with plans for final disposition in the Spring. Following Chris’ wishes the family is planning an outdoor memorial when weather and community health conditions permit.
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