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JoEllen (Strong) Miller, age 87, passed away on Thanksgiving morning, November 25, 2021 in Traverse City, MI. Jo was born on August 18, 1934 in Ionia, MI to Eldon and Alice Rhea (Kress) Strong. She married her high school sweetheart Wallace “Wally” Miller on April 16, 1955, and had 3 loving daughters: Beth, Jan, and Sue.

Jo was a wonderful and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. At every family gathering, she brought laughter and happiness to those around her. Whether she was on the fairway or the tennis courts, her competitive yet fun spirit would shine; but where it had shown most brightly was when she was engaged in a fierce match of her favorite game of Marbles with her family.

Jo’s passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed by her beloved husband of 66 years, Wally; daughters Jan (Steve) Spangler and Sue (Jeff) Gehres; son-in-law Ted Wolthuis, grandchildren, Matt Spangler, Mike Gehres, Scott (Monica) Spangler, Brad (Ana) Gehres, and Kailey Gehres; great-grandchildren, Willa & Ozzy Gehres; special sister-in-law Carol Szczepaniuk; brother Tom (Kim) Sullivan and numerous other relatives and friends.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Shurlie Meitz and Marcia Pease; her brother, Edgar Strong; and most recently, her daughter, Beth Wolthuis.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Munson Hospice House in Traverse City, MI.

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