Robert Miller Obituary

RV Industry Pioneer Robert H. "Bob" Miller, 84, of Inverness, Illinois passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 29, 2023 after a brief fight with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. Born in Chicago on March 4, 1939, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judith (nee Duda). Bob was a loving father to Melissa Miller (John) Ruth and Randall H. (Mary). Proud Poppi to Jack, Michael, and Tommy Ruth, as well as Charlie and Morgan Miller. Bob was the only child of Katherine Putyra (nee Fahlbusch) and Hubert Miller. He graduated from St. Patrick's High School in Chicago and went on to get a B.A. in Humanities from the University of Illinois and an MBA from the University of Chicago. He began his career at First National Bank of Chicago, but later found success when he joined his late father-in-law Henry Duda as President and General Manager of Zip Dee Inc., a manufacturer of awnings for Airstream trailers and other recreational vehicles. At Zip Dee he was able to combine his love of travel, attention to detail, and his skillful ability to work with his hands. Under his leadership Zip Dee grew from a small local shop to a national brand and business. He was most comfortable interacting with customers at the hundreds of travel rallies across North America with Airstream and Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA). He and his wife Judy were life-long seasoned travelers, visiting every continent and over 100 countries. Bob especially enjoyed cruising, telling bad jokes, drinking rusty nail cocktails, spending time in his workshop, and sharing his wealth of knowledge with his grandkids. As an avid photographer and camera club member, he took home numerous awards for his photographs. Burial will be private and a Celebration of Life will follow at a later date. Info Giancola Funeral Directors 773-625-7751