Janet Helen Miller

Janet (Jan) H. Miller, age 74, of Vermillion Township, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Jan was born on November 19, 1951, in New Richmond, Wisconsin, to Willard and Elizabeth Lee. One of seven children, she was raised on the family farm in Alden Township near Star Prairie, Wisconsin. Growing up in a large family instilled in her a strong work ethic, independence, and a deep appreciation for family that remained at the center of her life.

She graduated from Amery High School in 1969 and later pursued a passion for wood working inspired by her dad and earned a degree in cabinet making in St. Paul at TVI in 1986. Jan built a career in a male-dominated industry and more than held her own. With determination and skill, she proved time and time again that she could do anything her counterparts could do and often better. Beneath her strong and capable exterior was a woman who was deeply kind, loving, and devoted to those closest to her.

On May 16, 1973, Jan went on a blind date at Dibbo's Bar in Hudson, Wisconsin, where she met Joe Miller. After two less than perfect dates, something finally clicked, and from that point forward, they were inseparable. They became engaged on July 4, 1973, and were married on October 27, 1973, beginning a loving partnership that spanned 52 years.

Jan and Joe began their life together in a basement apartment in South St. Paul, where they welcomed their daughter, Michelle, in 1974. They later moved to Inver Grove Heights, where their son Joseph was born in 1980 and their youngest son, Daniel, in 1984. They raised their family there until 2005, when they moved to Vermillion Township, where they have spent the past 20 years together.

Family was Jan’s greatest joy. Summers meant two-week family vacations, often planned around what the kids wanted to do most. Whether it was hopping on a city bus into St. Paul, visiting the farmers' market, or simply spending time exploring together, Jan cherished every moment. She and Joe also enjoyed bowling and card clubs, building lasting friendships along the way.

Her grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart. Despite health challenges, she fought hard to be there to welcome each one into the world. Ranging in age from their twenties to just two years old, she loved each grandchild individually and treasured every visit, milestone, and shared moment.

Jan is survived by her devoted husband, Joe G. Miller; her children, Michelle (Rich) Neiman, Joseph J. (Shannon) Miller, and Daniel J. (Lindsay) Miller; her grandchildren, Luke (Rachel), Walker, Jack (Madison), Clara, Silas, and Camryn; her siblings, Mary (Tom) Larson, David (Debbie) Lee, and Mona (Brent) Arneson; her sister-in-law, Mary (Heinz) Drews, her brother-in-law, John (Peggy) Miller, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, James Lee and Steven Lee; her sister, Libby Lee.

Per Jan’s request, no services will be held at this time.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.