Obituary: Marvin O. Miller

Obituary: Marvin O. Miller

Dec. 26, 1953 – Sept. 1, 2025
Rocky Ford, Colorado

Marvin O. Miller, aged 71, of La Junta, passed away on September 1, 2025, in Rocky Ford, Colorado. Born on December 26, 1953, in La Junta, he was the son of Ralf Miller and Eva (McClain), and was raised with his stepfather, Edward F. Matthews seconews.org.

Despite overwhelming odds as a child—when doctors did not expect him to survive—Marvin triumphed. He not only survived but thrived: he learned to walk, talk, read, and above all, sing. Music was his lifelong passion. In recent years, Marvin shared his gift by singing specials at church, performing a cappella at his mother’s funeral, and bringing joy to friends and staff at the Pioneer Care Center seconews.org.

Survived by:

• Sister: Doris (Rick) Gumke of La Junta, CO

• Brother: Mike (Diana) Anglin of Colorado City, CO

• Aunt: Dortha McLain of La Junta, CO

• Nephews & Nieces: Jason (Kacie) Anglin; Phillip (Megan Johnson) Anglin; Nathan (Alicia) Gumke; Carrie (Billy) Zumwalt; Sarah Gumke—all of La Junta, CO

• Great-nephews & nieces: Taylor Gumke; Connor and Markus Anglin; Jason, Casey, and Isaac Zumwalt; Sammie and Emily Zumwalt seconews.org

Marvin was especially proud of “his nieces and nephews”—a testament to the deep love he had for his family.

Preceded in death by:

• Father: Ralf Miller

• Mother and stepfather: Eva and Edward Matthews

• Grandmother: Gladys McLain

• Uncles: Melvin McLain and Willis Anway

• Aunt: Doreen (Joe) Cummins seconews.org

Funeral Service

• Date & Time: Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

• Location: Peacock Memorial Chapel

• Officiant: Chaplain Nathan Gumke, AMR/Med.-Trans.

• Attire: Marvin’s favorite color was red—guests are encouraged to wear red in his honor.

• Burial: Following the service at Fairview Cemetery

• Tributes & Condolences: May be submitted online at Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home (PeacockFH.com). Arrangements are handled by Peacock‑Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory seconews.org.

Suggested Tribute Message

“It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Marvin O. Miller (1953–2025), a beloved member of our community known for his resilience, kindness, and beautiful voice. Despite the challenges life presented from the very beginning, Marvin triumphed with grace—and brought joy through his love of music. His laughter and songs will forever echo in our hearts. We extend our deepest condolences to Doris, Mike, and all of his family. We invite all who knew him to wear red on Friday, September 5th in his memory, as we gather to celebrate his life.”