In Loving Memory of Charles H. Miller (Papa Chief)

Charles H. Miller (Papa Chief), age 82, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 25, 2022, at his home in Raton, NM.Born on July 8, 1939, in Raton, NM, Charles was the son of William H. Miller and Pearl Short Miller. Charles split his time growing up between Raton and Johnson Mesa. Raton was his home but his heart was always on “the Mesa” where he was a cowboy helping on the family ranch. He met and married the love of his life, Wanda in 1960. He worked at Raton Office Supply repairing office machinery before going to work for the Raton Fire Department. He was devoted to his work with RFD where he retired after 20 years as the fire chief. Charles and Wanda also ran and managed the El Kapp Motel for 10 years where they raised their two daughters until Charles built the family their forever home in 1976.

Charles was very active in numerous community organizations, being a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, the Fairmont Cemetery board, and the Masons/Shriners. Charles was a proud life member of the Raton BPOE #865 having served the organization for 55 years. As a member of the Elks he advanced through the chairs to become the ER, Secretary, and District Deputy. He also served on the Raton City Commission and was the president of the Raton Public Retiree Employees of NM board and also served as president of the state PERA board. Charles was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed taking time to hunt, fish, water ski and camp, all with his family by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Fred and Carrie Price, grandson J.C. Hare, and son-in-law Leonard Lopez. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Wanda L. Miller of the home, two beautiful daughters Penny Lopez of Raton, Terry Hare and husband Jim of Moriarity, NM, granddaughters Jamie Lopez and Ashley Lopez Long both of Raton, grandsons Justin Hare and wife Daizzare of Logan, NM, Brandon Hare and wife Amanda of Stanley, NM, and the lights of his life, his 11 great grandchildren Colten Lopez, Tyson Lopez, Cooper King, Austin Hare, Juliann Hare, Brantley Hare, Grace Hephner, Boe Long, Colt Hare, Caydence Hare, and Daylyn Hare.

A special thank you to Robin Pilley and Connie Shields for everything they did for Charles during his illness.

Funeral services will be Saturday 12, 2022 at 10:30 AM at the Light House Church with lunch to follow at the Elk’s Lodge.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Fairmont Cemetery (PO Box 185, Raton, NM) or Raton Elks Lodge.