Catherine M Miller

Miller, Catherine Whelan

Catherine Whelan Miller, 92, passed away at home on Sunday July 1, 2012. She was predeceased by her parents, Dr. Paul Whelan, and Jenny Lamb Whelan, sisters Joan Walton and Betty Gilman, brothers Dan and Paul Whelan, husband George Miller, daughter Cynthia Hallett, and daughter-in-Iaw, Margi Beem-Miller. She is survived br one sister, Molly Herrill of Chula Vista CA, sister-in-law Pauline Miller Rogers, son Bruce Beem- Miller, gandchildren Micah, Jeffrey and Mandy Beem-Miller (Josh "Fuzz" Bower), great-granddaughter Josephine Bower, and many devoted nieces and nephews. Catherine first attended Seattle Pacific College, then moved on to the University of Washington, where she graduated with a degree in nursing and public health. After college she joined the Army Corps of Nurses, where she met her husband, Lt. George Miller at the officers' club in Seattle. Following their marriage in 1948, the couple moved east to Ithaca, where they lived together in Ellis Hollow for 56 years. In her first years in Ithaca she worked at Biggs Memorial Hospital as a country public health nurse, as well as at the Tompkins County Hospital. Later she went on to receive her teaching certificate from Cortland State to become a school nurse-teacher. Beyond her own family, she was mother to generations of students in the Ithaca City School District as a school nurse-teacher. She worked at a number of the elementary schools, but called DeWitt Jr. High home for over two decades. Her office was more then a bandaid station. She offered counseling, comfort, sweets, and refuge for students and staff alike. She sheltered the kids who couldn't find shelter at home, and provided firm but gentle discipline, her own mischievous mind more then able to keep up with the rowdiest. She saw the good in people, and her positive outlook was enduring and infectious. She was an avid gardener, jewelry maker, rockhound, and jokester. Through the years she was involved in various community activities including, Campfire Council, Ellis Hollow Fair, Red Cross, McGraw House and The Retired Teachers Association. A generous spirit, bringing warmth and laughter to each life she touched, she will be deeply missed. The family is very appreciative of Doreen Bourdon and Gerry Mente and the staff at Classens for their support in the last year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Catherine's memory to the SPCA. Friends may call Friday July 13, 2012 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Bangs Funeral Home. Private Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.