June 5, 1947 – January 9, 2026
Joanne Kaye Miller, age 78, passed away on January 9, 2026, at her home in Clear Lake. A devoted wife, loving mother, caring sister, proud grandmother, and joyful great-grandmother, she lived for the people she loved and made sure they always felt it.
Born on June 5, 1947, she grew up on a farm north of Aplington. She attended the University of Northern Iowa and began her career at Lutheran Mutual Insurance in Waverly, Iowa. Not long after, she met the love of her life, Gary Miller, who would become her partner in everything; they married on October 6, 1967. Together they raised two children, Michelle, and Jeremy, and shared many happy years in Waverly before moving to Clear Lake. Along the way, she managed a women’s clothing store and later served faithfully for years as a church administrator.
Her greatest joy was her family. She was the foundation of her family, offering wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support.
She was an excellent cook and loved to cook for the family. She also found peace on the Minnesota North Shore, returning year after year with her husband to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries.
Though she carried challenges from childhood polio, her faith sustained her. In her later years, she was known as a prayer warrior, offering hope, and comfort through her steadfast belief.
She leaves behind a family who adored her and will deeply miss her gentle wisdom and generous heart. Her influence remains in the lives of those she touched.
Preceded in death by her parents, John Kampman and Katherine (Eilderts) Kampman. She is survived by her beloved husband Gary; daughter Michelle (Ali); son Jeremy (Luby); grandchildren Caleb, Halle (Avery), Aidan (Jasie), Seth (Nicole), William; great-grandchildren Rhaylee, Ripley, Ramsie, Tayten, Ryerson, Ila; and sister Carolyn (Richard) Sheckler and brother Darwin (Mavis) Kampman.
Service will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, January 16 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 213 N Pennsylvania Ave, Mason City with Pastor Dan Gerrietts officiating. Burial will follow in Clear Lake Cemetery. Visitation will begin one hour prior at the church.
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