Obituary

Deane Leland Miller, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, AZ on December 15, 2025.  Deane was born on April 5, 1934, in Washburn, ND to Leland and Mabel Miller (nee Erickson).  He was a graduate of Bismarck High School and completed his bachelor’s degree at Dickinson University in 1964. He went on to receive his master’s in education degree.

Deane married the love of his life, Arlene Frietag on June 5, 1958, in Glen Ullin, ND and together they raised their three children in Garrison, ND.  Deane taught a total of 33 years, 29 of which were in Garrison.  For the many students he taught, he will be remembered for always adding a “5 point bonus question” on each test.  Deane’s passion for teaching was apparent to anyone who knew him and he gave each student his very best.

After retirement, Deane and his wife moved to Bismarck where he found himself bored, so he took on a part-time job with K-Mart, a job he was fond of. As those who knew him could attest, he loved to talk to people and was never at a loss for a subject to talk about.

Deane and Arlene eventually made their final retirement in Mesa, AZ with their daughter, Kelly, and her family, in 2015.

Deane is survived by his wife of 67 years, Arlene, his son, Doug (Lori) Miller, Bismarck, ND, and two daughters, Kelly (Dan) Ruhland, Mesa, AZ, and Jackie (Steve) Gustafson, Murrieta, CA.  He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Kayla, Lindsay, Kady,  Erica, Alyssa, Andrea, Emily, Garret, and Devon.  Deane also had four great-grandchildren: Max, Eleanor, Evelyn, and Penelope. Deane’s memory will live on through his family, whose lives have been enriched by his love and care. He will be laid to rest at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery in Mesa, AZ in January 2026.