Ken was born on November 19, 1938, in McPherson, Kansas, to Thomas and Bessie Miller. He attended school in Roxbury, Kansas, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from the College of Emporia, where he distinguished himself as an All-Conference basketball player. He later earned a Master of Science degree in Biology from Emporia State University in 1964.

On August 10, 1958, Ken married his high school sweetheart, Beth Kirby. Their marriage of more than 64 years was marked by deep devotion and partnership until Beth’s passing in 2022. Together they raised three children: Sharri, Sandi, and Stan.

Ken dedicated his professional life to education and mentorship. He began his career teaching biology and coaching in Ransom and Junction City, Kansas. In 1964, he moved to Salina, where he taught and coached at both Salina High School and Salina South High School. Affectionately known as “BioKen,” he left a lasting impression on generations of students and athletes through his enthusiasm for science, his commitment to excellence, and his genuine care for young people.

Following his retirement from education in 1999, Ken continued serving the community as a volunteer at Schilling Elementary School and Grace E. Stewart Elementary School. He particularly cherished his time working with Melinda Eitel’s kindergarten classes at Grace E. Stewart.

Ken’s contributions to education and athletics were recognized through numerous honors, including induction into the College of Emporia Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010, the Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame in 2013 and Salina Award for Outstanding Citizenship in 2014.

A man of strong faith, Ken was a devoted member of Sunrise Presbyterian Church, where he served as both an Elder and a Deacon. Alongside Beth, he remained actively involved in the church’s ministries, including Vacation Bible School and the CASTLE Program, long after their own children had grown.

Ken was also deeply committed to community service. He served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the Love Chloe Foundation and the Greater Salina Community Foundation. He especially enjoyed his relationships formed working with the Youth Grant Makers Council. One of his greatest passions was Camp Hope, a camp for children with cancer. Ken served as the director of the inaugural Camp Hope and volunteered there every summer from 1983 through 2021, touching countless lives through his compassion and leadership.

Ken is survived by his daughter, Sharri Janner (David) of Overland Park, Kansas; his daughter, Sandi Miller of Cedar Park, Texas; his son, Stan Miller (Melissa) of St. Petersburg, Florida, grandsons Scott, Cale, and Dane Janner and Eric and Adam Hill, 9 great grandchildren; and his companion, Cheryl Sweley of Salina, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Beth; his brothers, Richard and Robert Miller; and his sisters, Shirley Unruh, Opal Sprecker, and Rachel Johnson.

A funeral service celebrating Ken’s life will be held at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in Salina at 11 a.m., Saturday, August 29, 2026, with a reception immediately following. A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ken’s honor to Camp Hope at KyMel, Inc. or Sunrise Presbyterian Church.