Robert Miller - LHS Class of 1950

Robert Earl Miller was suddenly called home Saturday, May 17, 2014, to be with his Lord. He was born May 5, 1932, in Leavenworth, Kan., to the late Henry Miller Sr and Clifton Davis.
Robert began his boxing career as a young man in the winter of 1949. He won the Golden Gloves Boxing Championship in Kansas City and went on to the Nationals in Chicago. He boxed in the International Golden Gloves Championship and won the heavyweight championship. He held a 39 and six record in Golden Gloves. 
He graduated from Leavenworth High School and in the summer of 1950 turned pro. In the fall of 1950 he fought Joe Louis in an exhibition match in Kansas City, one of his three losses as a professional boxer. He moved to New York City, where he lived in Harlem and worked out everyday in Sugar Ray Robinson’s gym where he spared with Sugar Ray. He won his first pro fight in Fresno, Calif., in six rounds. He was drafted into the Army in 1951 and coached the 4th Army Boxing Team.
Robert retired from the U.S. Army in 1974. He then worked as a government employee at Fort Leavenworth until his retirement. He was co-owner of Miller’s BBQ located at 3rd and Dakota Street. He was an avid cook and his hobbies included drawing and woodworking all of which he did out of love. He was a pillar in his community helping when needed, including acting as an advocate for justice, often attending court sessions.
Robert was preceded in death by his brothers, Henry Miller, Thomas Miller (LHS Class of 1952) and daughter, Shirley Pearl Clayborne. He is survived by his wife, Gertrud Miller of Leavenworth; daughters, Angelitta Miller-Mason of Leavenworth, Biancia Miller-Whitfield of Smyrna, Ga., Michelle Miller of Florida and sons Robert E. Miller Jr. and Arthur E, Miller of Leavenworth; He also leaves behind many grandchildren, great grandchildren and several beloved nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2014, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. Burial with full military honors will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery at 10 a.m. A celebration of his life will be at June's Cottage after the services at 11:30 a.m.