Myrtle A. Miller

Myrtle Ann (Schweitzer) Miller, 101, passed away July 24, 2017 at her La Junta home. Myrtle was born to Charles and Ida Schweitzer November 7th 1915 in Protection, Kansas where she spent her youth. She enjoyed her younger years with her two sisters, Gladys and Esther. Her family attended the Mennonite church which provided the foundation for her faith journey and many social activities. She dedicated her life to Christ at twelve and spent her life enjoying her faith.

In 1935 she attended Hesston College and received a teaching certificate for elementary education. She then taught school in several small communities, often teaching grades one through eight. After teaching for several years, Myrtle moved to La Junta, Colorado where she entered the nursing program and in 1947 received her RN certification. Myrtle also received certification to work in the TB Sanitarium. Her nursing career started in the Sanitarium then moved to various position in teaching nursing, working in hospitals, doctors offices and nursing homes.

When Myrtle moved to La Junta, she became reacquainted with Mr. Adrian Miller, a former friend from Protection, Kansas. In the summer of 1954, she married Adrian. Myrtle and Adrian spent vacation time traveling to many location in the USA, Canada and in Mexico. Their travels also include visits to their many friends and relatives. She was very involved in the lives of her family, and especially the nieces and nephews. Myrtle also became interested in quilting. She made many quilts for friends, family and to donate to the MCC relief sale.

Myrtle is known for her kindness, cheerfulness, hard work and quick wit. She seemed to remember everything and everybody. As she aged, she often said that she was "old and slow," however there was nothing old or slow about Myrtle's spirit, wit or keenness to empathize with her many friends.

During retirement, Myrtle and Adrian lived for about ten years at the Glencroft retirement community in Phoenix, Arizona, then moved to the Presbyterian Tower in Pueblo, Colorado. After Adrian began to experience more severe health issues, they decided to return to La Junta.
Myrtle's life love, Adrian, died in the Spring of 2006. She lived to be one hundred and one years old, spending the balance of her years at Evergreen Gardens. She died after a short decline on July 24, 2017. In the last month of her life, Myrtle spoke often of wanting to go to heaven.
Her family and friends celebrate her life and her fabulous legacy. We do so with mixed joy and sadness.

She is survived by her sister, Esther Troyer of Grove, Oklahoma and brother & sister in-law, Eldo (Bertha) Miller of La Junta.

A memorial service will be Friday, Aug. 11, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at the Emmanuel Mennonite Church with Rev. Jeremy Yoder officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Emmanuel Mennonite Church, 502 Harriet Ave., La Junta, CO, 81050, direct or through the funeral home.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.