Obituary
Celebrating the vibrant life of Donna May Miller, known affectionately as Dona, who graced this world with her presence from August 12, 1932, to May 13, 2023. Born in the heart of Portland, Oregon, Dona lived out her golden years in the serene and scenic Crescent City, California, where she peacefully passed away from natural causes.
Dona's life story was as rich and diverse as the tapestry of her interests and accomplishments. A proud graduate of a high school in San Francisco, CA, Dona's professional journey began as an office assistant at DelMonte foods. Her inquisitive mind led her to the study of inland waters map navigation, a skill she excelled at. Dona and her husband Ron moved with their family from the Bay Area to Del Norte county and became proud owner-operators of the Stateline Motel in Smith River, CA, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit.
Her passion did not stop at her professional endeavors. Dona was self-taught in electrical, plumbing, and carpentry. Skills that were useful as she helped construct her family ranch home in Fort Dick. Her community involvement was marked by her role as a Volunteer Treasurer and member of the Del Norte Horseman’s Club. She also ran a successful saddle repair business, showcasing her handy nature.
Dona had a lifelong love for animals, especially horses and mules. Her childhood passion extended into her adult life, where she not only raised mules but, also sheep. Her love for DIY repairs and innovations earned her the title of the queen of DIY. An accomplished seamstress, Dona loved knitting and crochet projects, often spinning her own wool, a testament to her interesting character. She had an insatiable love of reading and enjoyed her Sudoku puzzles.
Dona's zest for life was evident in her love for mule or horses back riding and camping adventures. Her character was shaped by the Tarrant, Bumatay, and Tittle families from San Francisco, who also instilled in her a love for poker playing and social gatherings. As a daughter of a professional musician, Dona's artistic side shone through as a choir member and a self-taught piano student. She loved the popular music of her time and danced with grace and passion.
Dona's life was a testament to the words of Helen Keller, who once said, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." Indeed, Dona lived her life as a daring adventure, full of passion, intelligence, and creativity.
She is survived by her daughters, Denise Ceballos and Coleen Davis, and her grandchildren, Mark, Ryan, Rhonda, Luis, Bobby, and Cassandra. Her great-grandchildren, Raeanne, Macale, Alana, Dominick, and Bobby’s four children, will remember their great-grandmother with love and admiration. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ronald Miller, her children Harmony Silva, Melody Valdez, Timothy Miller, her stepson Gerry Miller, and his brother Michael.
In celebrating Dona's life, we remember a woman who was not just intelligent and handy, but also perpetually interesting. Her life was a testament to the power of passion, the beauty of creativity, and the joy of living each day to its fullest. Dona's legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew and loved her.
Sincerely yours,
Denise Ceballos