Alma (Andersons) Miller

Alma Andersons Miller, a beloved resident of Grand Rapids, MI, peacefully passed away at her home. She lived a vibrant life until the age of 86.

Born in Saldus, Latvia to Karlis E. Andersons and Alma V. Andersons. Alma’s family fled Latvia during WWII and spent time in a displaced persons camp before they made a significant journey to the United States with her parents and three siblings in search of new opportunities and a brighter future. They settled in Grand Rapids. Her commitment to her profession was evident when she graduated from the esteemed University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1962, earning a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. For over 25 years, she passionately cared for her patients, making a meaningful impact on the lives of many in Grand Rapids and the surrounding communities while building lasting relationships.

In addition to her career, Alma was an accomplished violinist. She was married to James K. Miller for 42 years until his passing on March 3, 2016. Together, they cherished the great outdoors, held season tickets for University of Michigan football games, and enjoyed golfing and playing tennis at their country club. Alma also loved to listen to classical music and spend time in the garden, tending to the flowers and roses that brought her joy.

Alma was preceded in death by her husband, James K. Miller III; her parents, Karlis and Alma; a brother, Chuck, and a sister, Ausma. She is survived by her brother, Janis Andersons, his son, Arthur, and his family from Lake Orion, Mi, a nephew, Robert Unglenieks, his wife, Mary Anne, and their son from Holland, MI, a niece, Sandra Laughlin, her husband, Mark, and their daughter from Fremont, Nebraska.

She is also survived by five stepchildren: John P.S. Miller and his wife, Marilyn, along with their three children from Higgins Lake, MI; Mark M.B. Miller and his wife, Karen, along with their four children from Pleasanton, CA; Martha Jane Holman and her husband, George, along with their five children from Reno, NV; James K. Miller IV and his wife, Tanya, along with their two children from Mill Valley, CA; and Melissa Ann Gosney and her husband, Brett, along with their two children from Crested Butte, CO. Margaret Ada Miller Greer predeceased Mrs. Miller.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11 AM EDT, followed by the Celebration of Life at 12 PM, with a reception featuring light bites immediately afterward. The event will take place at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, located at 4291 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A private graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery the following day.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Izaak Walton League, Dwight Lydell Chapter, IWLA, PO Box 541, Belmont, MI 49306, in honor and memory of Alma Miller.