My father, Ron Miller, passed away earlier today after battling brain cancer for a year and a half. Its a sad day for those of us he leaves behind, but there are reasons to be grateful too. I'm grateful to have learned so much from him. Dad was probably the most self-sufficient person I've ever known. It didn't matter if it was plumbing, cars, computers or taxes. He could figure anything out if he thought about long enough. From him I picked up so many of the skills that serve me so well today, including my love of computers and the the belief that I can solve *almost* any problem if I want to. I'm grateful for the experiences we shared together. Growing up we went on vacations to Europe, the UK, the Caribbean and one ill-fated road trip to the east coast. I didn't always appreciate these adventures at the time, but I have fond memories of those trips and a million other experiences growing up. More recently, Dad got to see both of his children finish college, marry, and begin successful careers. I'm glad he got to see that. Its been so hard to watch him struggle and decline over the past year and a half, and particularly this past month, but I'm glad we had this time with him. Dad was able to go back east to visit his family, to spend time pursuing his love of geology, and to spend some extra time with us kids. Towards the end we were able to be there with him, comforting him and providing for his needs. Especially my sister who moved in with him and hasn;t splet in about a week- she has to be the best daughter ever. Dad passed comfortably in his own bed knowing that he was loved. I'll miss you, Dad. I love you.