Jan Miller

Jan Miller was born December 19, 1947 in Washington, Iowa, the daughter of Jacob and Jean (Christner) Kauffman. She graduated from Iowa Mennonite School in 1966, then attended Eastern Mennonite College. On June 22, 1968 Jan was united in marriage to Russ Miller at the Fairview Mennonite Church, where she was a faithful member through out her life. Over the years, Jan enjoyed music, leading children's choirs, and serving as director at Spring Valley Youth Camp where she and Russ led for 12 years. Being convicted of the need for Christian education, Jan, along with others poured herself into the development of Pathway Christian School. She also enjoyed planning singspirations, church events and programs. Her servant heart lead her to be a loyal helpmate to her husband in whatever business endeavor he was involved in at the time. She loved her family and enjoyed helping along with their needs. She was passionate about serving Jesus on a daily basis and was often known to come alongside others to encourage them in their life journey. Jan was an optimistic encourager and was frequently imparting words of wisdom such as "Choose life!" and "Speak truth." Her conversations typically ended with two powerful words, "Be Blessed." She and Russ enjoyed the adventures of traveling including snow skiing and motorcycle excursions. Jan passed away Saturday, February 27, 2016 with her family by her side at home in Kalona at the age of 68 years.
Jan is survived by her husband Russ, five children: Regina (Ernie) Yoder of Arthur, IL, Regi (Penny) Miller of Ft. Wayne, IN, Jed (Jessica) Miller of Hills, Jodi (Rodney) Gehman of Kalona, Jason (Amber) Miller of Kalona; 24 grandchildren; her parents Jacob and Jean Kauffman of Kalona, 3 sisters Joyce (Rick) Baron of Tuscon, AZ, Julia (Phil) Kauffman-Jantzi of Strasburg, PA, Joannie (Jeff) Firkins of Iowa City; and 3 brothers John (Barb) Kauffman of Wellman, Jerry Kauffman of Kalona; and Jorge (Jenny) Kauffman of Lancaster, CA. She was preceded in death by a stillborn granddaughter Johanna, 2 brothers Jeff and Jim, and a sister-in-law Mary Kauffman.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at the Fairview Mennonite Church in rural Kalona. Pastor's Perry Miller, Leon Stutzman and John Hershberger will officiate. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 1-8 PM on Monday, February 29, 2016 at the Fairview Mennonite Church where the family will greet friends from 1-4 and 6-8 PM. A memorial fund has been established for Pathway Christian School. The Yoder-Powell Funeral Home is caring for Jan and her family.