Dean Miller

Dean Miller, 87, of Hampton, passed away Monday, October 7, 2024, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City. A Celebration of Life memorial visitation was held from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Friday, October 11, 2024, at Woodley Funeral Home in Hampton. A private family burial took place in the Hampton Cemetery. Woodley Funeral Home of Hampton cared for Dean and his family.

Dean Ira Miller was born October 12, 1936, in Franklin County, Iowa, son of Ira and Mabel (Patton) Miller. He graduated from Hampton High School and then enlisted in the United States Navy. During his time in the Navy, he served as an aviation storekeeper. On July 7, 1957, Dean was united in marriage to Kirby Gaiser in Rockford. To this union, two children were born: Michael and Michelle. Kirby passed away at the age of 65. On May 28, 2005, Dean was united in marriage to Norma Mollenbeck.

Dean had a love for both motorcycles and farming, enjoying both for many years. Prior to undergoing surgery for a brain tumor, he was a career truck driver from the late 1960’s until 1989. After that, Dean remained active in the community helping friends and neighbors. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Hampton and the American Legion.

Dean had a vast memory and could tell stories like none other. He enjoyed his morning and afternoon coffee time with his friends.  Over the years, he enjoyed traveling and spending time with his grandchildren.

Dean is survived by his son Mike (Ruth) Miller of Alexandria, Virginia; daughter Michelle (Doug) Hand of Solon; grandchildren: Amanda Miller, Matt (Meg) Hand, Thomas (Catherine) Hand and Elizabeth Hand; great-granddaughter Madeline Hand; brother-in-law Kelvin (Pam) Gaiser of Tuscan, Arizona; sister-in-law Maydene (Brian) Thies; step-daughters: Cindy (David) Ibeling and Tami (Kevin) Ballhagen; step-grandchildren: Chris (Shannon) Lind, Kelly (Eric) Daufeldt, Mark (Taylor) Ballhagen, Carley Ballhagen, Shelby (Brad) Morgan and Trevor Mollenbeck.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Kirby; wife Norma; siblings: Charles, Howard, Doris and Fern; step-sons: Roger Mollenbeck and Todd (Linda) Mollenbeck; and step-grandsons: Travis Ballhagen and Cody Mollenbeck.

Memorials may be directed to the Franklin County American Legion and MercyOne North Iowa Hospice.