Robert Dale “Bob” Miller, 91, passed peacefully on July 10, 2026 at his home in Gambier, Ohio after a prolonged illness. Bob was born in Salem, Illinois on November 4, 1934 to Raleigh Byron and Mary Ethel (Garner) Miller.
Bob was a man of hard work, enduring vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. As a youth Bob acquired a motor bike which enabled him to have two paper routes instead of just one. Later when Bob had a family to provide for and limited funds he repeatedly pawned his 22 rifle to make it financially to the end of the month. His life work was the founding of RDM Equipment Co., Inc. in 1972 in Illinois and moved to Wooster, Ohio in 1974. He worked tirelessly, guided by the same entrepreneurial spirit. He successfully operated RDM which grew to be the largest oilfield manufacturing representative business east of the Mississippi until he sold it in 2006. Bob was always the guy everyone looked up to and respected because of his solid character. Bob’s legacy of his dedication to his business reflected his broader approach to life—steadfast, hands-on, and deeply committed. Hard work, perseverance and devotion brought respect from those who knew him.
After retirement he found peace and purpose in the outdoors. Whether tending to his farm or working in the woods, Bob cherished the land and the quiet strength it offered. He could run circles around guys half his age. Now, he had the opportunity to renew his love of motor bike riding that he had as a youth. He purchased a Harley Davidson motorcycle, a pursuit that spoke to his adventurous spirit and love of freedom. Bob rode over 120,000 miles including a trip from home in Ohio to Fairbanks, Alaska.
As the great patriarch of our family, leading with highest honor and character, he will be greatly missed.
Bob is remembered by Brenda Garrison (Stan), Carol Cravenho, and Robert Miller (Kara), the children of his marriage to Shirley Smith, 1955-1980. For forty four years (1981-present) , Bob shared his life with his wife Susan and their two children, Jonathan D. Miller (married Jennifer) and Grace E. Boyle (Mark). Together they built a family rooted in love and resilience. He is also remembered by his brother Jerry Miller (Katherine), and brother Ernie Cruse (Ann) and seven grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Ethel Miller, father Raleigh Byron Miller, and twin sons who were born prematurely and died.
Bob found a church home at Epworth Methodist Church. He affirmed his Christian faith and became a faithful member. It is the family’s and Bob’s desire that any monetary memorial donations be made to Gambier Epworth Methodist Church, P.O. Box 207, Gambier, Ohio 43022
A celebration of life service will be held at Gambier Epworth Methodist Church in Gambier, Ohio at a later date
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com