Lonnie J. Miller

Lonnie J. Miller, 73, of Grover Hill, passed away at 3:32 p.m. Thursday, March 12, 2020, at Mercy Health in Lima.

He was born March 3, 1947, in Paulding County, the son of John C. and Rita (Thitoff) Miller, who both preceded him in death. On October 14, 1966, he married the former Susan M. Ashbaugh, who survives.

Other surviving family members include his children, Rhonda Bates of Grover Hill, Tim (Jackie) Miller of Fort Jennings, and Tony (Staci) Miller of Grover Hill; and four grandchildren, Blake, Tristin, Morgan, and Kenley Miller.

In addition to his parents, Lonnie was preceded in death by his father- and mother-in-law, Alton and Phyllis Ashbaugh; a son-in-law, Bill Bates, a brother, James C. Miller; and one brother-in-law, Gayle Ashbaugh.

He was a 1965 graduate of Grover Hill High School and served in the United States Army. He was a lifelong farmer and a rural letter carrier based in Grover Hill for over 35 years. He was on the Paulding County Agricultural Society and a board member for 46 years. Lonnie was a member of the Grover Hill Lions Club, Paulding County Junior Fair, and an honorary member of the Wayne Trace FFA Chapter. He was also involved with the Vantage FFA. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2873 in Grover Hill. 

Lonnie enjoyed harness racing and most enjoyed time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with Pastor Rex Roth officiating. Burial will follow in Middle Creek Cemetery south of Grover Hill, where military honors will be rendered by the honor guard of VFW Post 2873. 

Visitation is from 2-8 p.m. Monday, March 16, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials: Donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.