Lawrence Randall 'Mr. Shorty' Miller, 85

Lawrence Randall Miller, known to his family and to his friends in the Single Action Shooting Society El Buscadero Posse as “Mr. Shorty,” passed away peacefully Friday, Dec. 5, at the age of 85, with his son, Randy Miller, and daughter, Rae Miller, by his side.

Born on Sept. 13, 1940, in Akron, Ohio, to C.O. and Eleanor Anne Miller, Larry spent his life doing what he loved: elk hunting in the mountains, fishing high lakes and the Canadian coast, flying his Cessna, cowboy shooting, teaching physical education, and coaching football and wrestling. 

Yes, he was one of the many Millers who shaped the lives of countless students and athletes in Sandpoint, Idaho, for more than 30 years. His impact on generations of students is impossible to measure. Knuckle pushups and burpees in PE class at the Ninth Grade Center … those who know, know.

Of all his accomplishments, his greatest joy was raising his two children and watching them grow into successful educators. Alongside his beloved wife, Barbara, he took immense pride in their lives, their educational pursuits, and their athletic achievements — and he always made time to end a tough day with a vanilla dipped cone from Dub’s Drive Inn. 

He was a dedicated husband and father whose unconditional love, steady guidance, and unwavering belief in his family made him the epitome of the world’s greatest dad. Those who knew him witnessed not only his devotion to family but also his work ethic, grit, and his ability to motivate — often with one of his famous “Larry-isms.” Again, those who know, know.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Barbara Miller; and his brother, Bill Miller. He is survived by his son, Randy Miller; daughter Rae Miller; brother Ray Miller; grandchildren Darrin Miller, Gracelyn Miller, and Ashley Peterson; and great-grandson Braxton Miller. He leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for his love, his guidance, and the comfort of knowing we were always his first priority.

Though we will miss him deeply, we carry his steady warmth with us — proof that the way he loved us never ends.