Morton R Miller

Morton Ralph Miller, 92, of Schenectady, NY, passed away Friday, January 23, 2015. He was born in the Bronx, NY on February 20, 1922 to Jack and Irma Miller. He was predeceased by his wife, Vivian Jean Ayres Miller, in 1999, they were married for 52 years. Mort left high school to help support his family; he completed his education after returning from his military service. He helped construct Thompson Lake during his tenure with the Civilian Conservation Corps. Mort rose to the rank of Private First Class while serving with the 126th infantry in the Pacific Theater (Philippines and New Guinea) during World War II; he received a Purple Heart and was honorably discharged. Mort had a 31-year career with the US Postal Service and retired from the position of Superintendent of Delivery and Collection in Schenectady. He drove a bus for many years for a number of businesses and tour companies including Wade Tours, Welcome, and, My Favorite Line. Mort was a scout and leader in the Boy Scouts of America for more than 80 years and was the recipient of the Silver Beaver award. Upon retiring, he focused on helping veterans and their families. He was active in the DAV and held every position within that organization including Commander and, at the time of his death, Adjutant. Mort also received the Jefferson award for his volunteer work with the VA. In addition, he helped establish a van transportation service for Schenectady County veterans. Mort was also a member VFW Post 1895 in Schenectady. His dedication to his family, the scouts, and to veterans and their surviving spouses was well known. He always put others first - everyone knew they could count on Mort! He is survived by his daughter Deborah Lansing (Donald Lansing); son Curt Miller (Holly Miller); grandson Adam Lansing (Erana Bumbardatore); granddaughter Elizabeth Lansing; grandson Justin Miller (Lori Miller); grandson Matthew Miller (Susan Holz); great-grandchildren Celia, Owen, Sara, Riley, and Emily; friend and companion Josephine Minard; sisters Gilda, Lucille, Johanna, Pearl (pre-deceased); and many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be Monday, January 26 from 4:00- 7:00 pm at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home located at 1605 Helderberg Avenue in Rotterdam. Burial with military honors will be held Tuesday, January 27 at noon at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans Lt. V.O. Fryer 88, Commander Connie Lennon, 39 Brant Avenue, Fort Johnson, NY 12070 or The Boy Scouts of America Twin Rivers Council at 253 Washington Avenue Extension, Albany, NY 12205.