John Paul Miller

    John Paul Miller, of Dickens, Iowa, made his ascent to Heaven on Monday, November 14, 2022, at the age of 62. John was born August 04, 1960, to Shirley Mills in Algona, Iowa. John, the lone brother among six sisters, spent most of his childhood in Royal, Iowa. His priority for family began at an early age, spending much of his time with his mother and sisters. John graduated from Clay Central High School in 1978.

    John’s legacy traces back to his introduction to a beautiful woman with an equally tender heart, Carmie Hagedorn. Soulmates, bound by love and strength, began their venture as a family on October 20, 1984. Carmie and John married at The United Methodist Church in Dickens, Iowa and had their first child shortly after. They planted their roots in Dickens, Iowa. Although their children branched further, Carmie and John remained grounded. John never met a stranger. He dedicated himself to his family and all those he encountered; an attribute passed on to each of his seven children. John often mentioned that his purpose in life was to build a family. Early on, he insisted he would only have a few kids; but with the overwhelming love he felt for Carmie, they found themselves building a village.

    John and his kids would often talk about the Powerball and what they would do if they won the Jackpot. John never sought material things such as cars or extravagant trips. He simply spoke of a neighborhood he would build with a spot for his entire family. Because that’s what he truly valued, having all of his family together, in one place.

   John began his career with UPS, devoting over 30 years to the company. His position quickly evolved to passion as John fell in love with his customers and co-workers. Delivering to the city of Laurens and surrounding areas for many years, he made life-long friendships and was welcomed as a member of their community. Falling victim to his charm and wit, he became the overly friendly neighbor that did not give you the opportunity to forget him. Be it packages or punchlines, delivering was his greatest sentiment.

   John was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Mills, his brothers-in-law: Richard Eldridge and Jim Lorenzen, his father-in-law Charles “Chuck” Hagedorn, and nephews: Jonathan Nixon and Bryson Hagedorn. Left to cherish his memory are: his wife of  38 years, Carmie Miller; his children: Ashley (Chad) Atherton, Lyndsay (Tim) Terveer, Mitchell (Amber) Miller, Nathan (Jackie) Miller, Gabby Miller, Madison (Austin) Miller, and Caleb Miller; grandchildren: Caden & Paisley, Christopher & Aela, Addilyn & baby Miller; sisters: Dottie Eldridge, Shyla Colburn, Leala (David) Cain, Becky (Mark) Nixon, Monica (Brad) Healy, and Shelly Lorenzen; several nieces and nephews; other relatives, and many friends.

To further emphasize his love for Carmie, below is an excerpt from a letter addressed to his love:

You and the kids are my dream come true. When I was young, all I ever wanted was: a home, a good job, children, and a faithful wife. I can honestly say I AM TRULY BLESSED! I’ve got a home, a good job, seven totally awesome kids, and best of all, I got a faithful wife who also just happens to be gorgeous, caring, sharing, amazing, fun, loving, a great mom, hard-working, not a morning person, amazing, and gorgeous. You are my dream come true! Did I say amazing? Did I say gorgeous?

All My Love, forever-n-ever, John "the lucky one!"