Siegel, B. Miller Passed away on Wednesday, May 6, at age 98. He was predeceased five months ago by his beloved wife of more than 72 years, Leslie Siegel. He is survived by their four children and spouses, Lynne Lurie (Norman), Kate Bandos (Doug), Jim Siegel (Sheryl), and Joel Siegel (Arlene), along with ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Miller was a proud graduate of Ottawa Hills High School, Grand Rapids Junior College (GRCC) and the University of Michigan. He honorably served in Europe during WWII as part of the U.S. Army Air Force, and could retell personal stories with details that amazed everyone. As 3rd generation President of Siegel Jewelers, Miller navigated the 126-year-old business through unprecedented changes in retailing. This included being the first local merchant to sign a pre-construction lease at Woodland Mall in 1966. He passed on to the 4th generation the good business practices and ethics that remain a foundation of Siegel Jewelers today. Miller cared greatly about Grand Rapids, and gave of his time and energy to the community. This included serving on the boards of the Grand Rapids Symphony, Grand Valley State University Foundation, and Temple Emanuel. Entertaining family and friends with Leslie, gardening, gourmet food, fine wine, and skiing (even traveling to Colorado to ski at age 87!) were his passions. Everyone marveled at Miller's astounding memory of travels, meals, poems, songs and his life stories. Most of all, he loved being surrounded by family, friends, and music. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., on Friday, May 8, at Temple Emanuel, 1715 E Fulton St. Donations may be sent to Meijer Gardens for a memorial bench in memory of Miller and Leslie. Arrangements by:

 

Funeral Home

Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home
4291 Cascade Road SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 940-7333

Published in Grand Rapids Press from May 6 to May 7, 2015