Longtime Clarkston area resident, businessman and former Detroit Lion Robert Miller passed away on Aug. 7 at the age of 76.
Miller, father of three and step-father of three, leaves behind his children and wife of 32 years, Delphine.
The Millers were introduced through mutual friends and married in 1974. The couple moved to the area from Birmingham in the latter half of the 1970’s.
Together, they operated the Del-Rob farm in Springfield Township raising thoroughbred racehorses. Robert trained the horses on the farm and raced them.
‘We had two fillies and we needed some place to put them, and this was the best place,? Delphine said.
Robert founded Cavalier Manufacturing in 1958, a metal stamping plant in Hazel Park, which he ran until 2003, when he sold the firm. The business performed work for the Big Three automakers.
Robert found time for laughter also.
‘He liked a good joke, he was quite a prankster,? Delphine said.
Robert also excelled athletically. Delphine recalled he was talented at track and discus with the University of Virginia, where he graduated in 1951. He got to the university on a football scholarship.
The Lions drafted Miller with the 58th pick in the 1952 draft. He played the tackle position for the team until 1958.
Robert also enjoyed hunting, but his wife said he did not have time to venture to northern Michigan once the couple had horses to raise and train.
The Millers have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
‘They loved him because he was like another child,? Delphine said.
‘He was a very wonderful husband and grandfather,? she added.
For Miller’s obituary, please see page 8B of this week’s edition.