Obituary of LTC Todd Christopher Miller, USAF,

Loving father, devoted husband, servant of Christ, avid outdoorsman, warrior, brilliant mind – these are only a few of the myriad admirable characteristics inherent in Todd Miller.Todd began his life in the beautiful college town of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born of parents Brian and Pamella on June 21st, the longest day of the year, Todd was a strong and shining light from the start. As a child, he loved being outdoors. Todd lived for fishing, hiking, camping, even hunting frogs and beavers (which, he regrettably shared with his family to eat). He had a bright mind, which he developed in his years in Olympics of the Mind with his other friends. There he created, occasionally schemed, and always had fun. During these early years, his family grew with the addition of his sister Michelle, step-sister Melinda, step-father Duane, step-mother K.C., and brother Ryan. In his high-school years, he was a mediocre football player. In the water, however, Todd was inspirational. He flew through swimming lanes with ease– In fact, last we checked, he continued to hold the 50-meter sprint record in the Traverse City High School pool. During his adolescence, he also enjoyed long summer days on the beach with his Grandpa and Grandma VanDyne, swimming in Lake Michigan bay and spending time with family. During vacations, he and Michelle would also adventure in Arizona with their dad, visiting grandparents Don and Joy Miller along the way. His college years were a time of growth, and love. In his freshman year, Todd met his soul mate, Lisa Michelle. From the first moment, he was awe struck. Not more than a month into their relationship, he called up Michelle to announce he had met his future wife. From that moment on, he devoted himself to Lisa, growing with her in love and faith, and blessing of family. Northern Arizona University was the launching point of a long and distinguished career as a United States Air Force officer. Entering college with an ROTC scholarship, Todd was commissioned as a 2nd Lt May 1991, but did not enter active duty service until the following year due to force reductions and budget cuts. Instead, Todd found temporary work at the Flagstaff Rent-To-Own store, where he was assigned to the collections department (aka repossession). His route was the Navaho Indian Reservation in northern Arizona. During this interim year, Todd collected many colorful stories about being chased by dogs and unhappy customers as he took possession of their unpaid items. Resulting from this unique life experience, 'Repo' became his call sign on the airborne command and throughout his career. As an Airman, Todd's gifted mind propelled him into key positions in strategic planning, intelligence, and targeting. During his distinguished 23 year career Todd served at 9 duty stations, and combat deployments to Desert Storm, Iraq, Bahrain, and other undisclosed locations. He completed three masters degrees and multiple job specific schools. He served in numerous mission-critical assignments with the Joint Strategic Service Command, Air Force Space Command, and even 'carried the flagstaff' as commander of the 544 Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group. He retired honorably this in 2015 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.In 1998, while stationed in Nebraska, Lisa and Todd introduced their first child, Brett. Four years on, Lauren Joy was ushered into the world on the beautiful island of Oahu. Another blessing, Annelise Grace, was welcomed on a snowy April morning and brought back to their warm Colorado home in the forest. Their family complete, Todd and Lisa devoted their lives to the betterment of their children. Todd could not have loved any deeper. When not busy working, fixing up the house, coaching his kids, or fishing (there was A LOT of fishing…), Todd gave freely of his time and talents to his church community. He was committed fisher of men, in service to Christ and sharing his grace, all the while growing in faith with his family and friends.In 2010, God's hand moved the Miller family back to their beloved home in Oahu. There, Todd's love of the Lord grew as he watched his family blossom. Todd and Lisa continued to grow their love for the Lord and one another with the support of pastor Perry Alexander and the Kailua community church 'ohana. Through trials and troubles, this group abided with the family and with Todd. We, as his family, are forever grateful for their past and continued support. On December 28th, Todd went to be with his father in heaven, resting in His peace and grace. We are so thankful to all who have been part of his story, both in joyous and difficult times. It is with grateful hearts that we say thank you to you all, and bid goodbye- for now- to our much beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Todd Miller loved with a fire. He spoke words of wisdom, truth, and often told jokes so bad you had to laugh. His passion for others knew no bounds. Todd smiled with his eyes; an honest and beautiful smile. His bellowing laugh resounds in the canyons and mountains through which he trekked, and in the hearts of all who heard it. His rugged visage carried both strength and compassion. Even in times of weakness, Todd's strong arms were a place of refuge for all. The only one to ever love deeper than Todd Christopher Miller is the one who holds him now. We will cherish his heart, and his fire, will never go out. Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services~North6575 Oakwood Blvd.Colorado Springs, COUSA 80923 Events Cemetery Thursday, January 5, 2017 2:00PM Fort Logan National Cemetery 3698 South Sheridan Boulevard Denver, CO 80235 Phone: 303-761-0117 Visitation Tuesday, January 3, 2017 5:00PM - 8:00PM The Springs Funeral Services - North 6575 Oakwood Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Phone: 719-207-8611 Service Wednesday, January 4, 2017 10:30AM The Springs Funeral Services - North 6575 Oakwood Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Phone: 719-207-8611