Mrs. Ruth Lenore Miller (nee Woodbeck), age 94 years, passed away peacefully in Hogarth Riverview Manor on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with family by her side.
Lenore was born in Fort William, Ontario on February 22, 1930 to Leonard and Enid Woodbeck. She met John Peter Miller and they were married on February 18, 1950. Together they raised their 6 children and enjoyed 47 wonderful years together.
Mom always said raising her family with Johnny was her greatest joy and accomplishment in life.
As well as being a mom, wife, homemaker, and community volunteer, she worked throughout her life at several jobs including babysitting, Chapples cafeteria, Wenzell’s Clothing, co-owner with John at the Silver Dollar Inn, Canadian Tire Auto Parts Counter, where she was affectionately known as “muffler momma”, and finally her dream job, as Hostess at McDonald's Restaurants, on Red River Road and Arthur Street, where she was known by many names such as Grandma McDonald and Mrs. McMiller to name a couple. Mom finally retired at age 81.
Mom enjoyed camping, fishing and the great outdoors, especially her time at Stewart Lake and later Eva Lake, where she loved a campfire, and the call of a loon especially with a full moon.Mom was active in her churches, Knox United on Pruden Street and then later Knox United on Shuniah Street.
Lenore is survived by her children, sons Jim (Charlotte), Peter (Dianne), Patrick (Cindy), daughters Cathy Avis (Guy), Carolyn De Jardine (Ross), and daughter-in-law Vicky Miller. Her seven grandchildren, Christopher Miller (Rachel), Sally DeVries (Jerry), Samantha Miller, Jessica Miller (Nathan Blackburde), Tyler Avis (Kelli), Jason Miller (Janna Goodhand), Mitchell De Jardine (Maggie Zerabny) and eight great-grandchildren, Abigayle Miller-Roy and Cody Miller, Jakob, Anne and Timothy DeVries, Zakk and Drew Avis, and Madison Blackburde. Siblings Bob Woodbeck, Jack Woodbeck, and Gail Crocker, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family also survive.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Miller and son, Bruce Miller; her parents Enid (nee Webb) and Leonard Woodbeck; brother Bill Woodbeck.
The family would like to thank the staff at Sister Leila Greco Apartments and Hogarth Riverview Manor, for their care and compassion, during Mom’s time there.
At Lenore’s request cremation has already taken place. A Memorial Service in remembrance of Lenore will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at 11:00am in the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James, with Rev. Randy Boyd officiating. A private family interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens, where Lenore will be laid to rest with her husband John.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lenore's name to Northern Cancer Fund (payable to TBRHSF), Heart and Stroke Foundation, Ronald McDonald House or another charity of your choice, would be appreciated.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
