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William Kaulia "Bill" Miller, affectionately known as "Pops," passed away on February 16, 2023. The family patriarch to 4 sons and many of their friends, Bill led a life of simplicity, generosity, hard work, and humility.Born in Lihue, Hawaii to Juliette and Willis Miller in 1940, he spent his early childhood shuttling from island to island as his father traveled and helped small businesses set up tire retread shops.
After graduating from Kamehameha Schools in 1958, Bill did a brief stint at UH Hilo, spent a few years in the Navy, and then returned to Hilo to work for his father's business, Wailoa Tire Recap. When one of his father's suppliers was looking to set up shop in the islands, Bill jumped at the opportunity.
With the support of his wife, the late Elizabeth "Girlie" Aiona, Bill partnered and started "Tire Equipment & Supply Co.", and later founded "Miller Industries, Inc." – a family business that brought him great joy. Off days were spent fishing in Kane'ohe Bay and story time with family and friends in the place he cherished most, his home in Kane'ohe. Bill will be missed by all that gathered at Pop's Garage and shared a cold drink, a seasoned steak, fresh sashimi, and a laugh.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth. He is survived by his sons: Marlon (Susan) Miller of Hilo, Markham (Sophie) Miller of Mililani, Brad (Cheryl) Miller of Kane'ohe, and Mitchell (Sumea) Miller of Kane'ohe; grandchildren: Kaulia, Pi'ikea, Maddie, Lalea, Abbie, Daphne, and Elvis; great grandchildren, Lake, and Harlow and his sister; Carol Paul of Hilo.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, May 27, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. in the Ko'olau Ballrooms, 45-550 Kionaole Rd. Kaneohe.
Join us as we share a lifetime of stories
of the man that touched so many.
