Hazel Belle Miller

Hazel Belle Miller, age 98, peacefully passed away on April 27, 2025, while residing at St. Lukes Extended Care in Ronan. Hazel was born in Rapid City, South Dakota on March 9, 1927, to George Fernley Platt and Olive May Platt.

Growing up in Lead, South Dakota, she moved to Hamilton, Montana at the age of 11 and later graduated from Hamilton High School. Hazel married Harry Miller in August 1946 and they both pursued their education in Bozeman. Upon returning to Hamilton, she sought a career in nursing.

In 1954, her husband and her brother, Charles Platt, started the Polson Ready Mix and Hazel resumed a long nursing career, mostly with Dr. Ward Benkelman. Later, she retired after 50 years of nursing service and earning numerous achievements and medical awards.

Hazel was a Demolay Mother, a Deacon of the First Presbyterian Church, secretary for the Polson Jaycees, and she enjoyed many years of visitations to needy persons in her church and in the Polson Assisted Living Center. Some of her fond memories were of entertaining friends in her home, playing Bridge, spending winters in Arizona, and enjoying her lake cabin with family and friends.

Hazel was preceded in death by her Husband, Harry Miller, her parents and six brothers and sisters: Howard Platt, Elva Biggs, Marion Gray, Jane Murphy, Eda Spain, and Charles Platt.

She is survived by her three sons: Jim Miller (wife Jessie) of Finley Point, MT, Gary Miller (wife Nancy) of Seeley Lake, MT and Don Miller (wife Laurie) of Polson, MT. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Cecily, Alycia, Jack, Sheree, Marie, and David. She also leaves behind eleven great and great-great grandchildren, along with sister-in-law Vivian Platt Ross and many nieces and nephews.

Hazel was greatly remembered for her positive attitude, ambition, and her vigorous long walks around the community during lunch with her employer Dr. Ward Benkelman. She placed a high value on family gatherings and preparing extravagant meals for every social event. Hazel was a very social person and would not hesitate to stir up a conversation with an acquaintance as well as a stranger. You could never predict what kind of silly prank or humorous behavior would develop when she got together with her dear friend Charlene Warren. After Harry's passing, Hazel often reflected on the wonderful ways he took care of her and the many times they would enjoy dancing a waltz together at home. Along with many other thoughts and memories of Hazel, she will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and loved ones. She will always be with us in our hearts and memories.

Private family graveside services will be held at a later date.