Alvin Lawrence Miller

Alvin Lawrence Miller, 85 of Tuscarawas Twp., passed away Friday at his residence with his family by his side. Al was born on January 16, 1928 in Massillon to Montford and Violet (Eby) Miller. He graduated from Washington High School with the class of 1945 and was honored as a WHS Distinguished Citizen in 1998. He was a lifelong member of Stanwood Community Church, former member of The Massillon Salvation Army Advisory Board, and Honored Lifetime Member of the Industrial Fabrics Association International. Founder of Miller Weldmaster, Al designed, developed and manufactured rotary heat welding equipment to produce thermoplastic coated fabric products including U.S. Navy SEAL assault boats, high altitude surveillance blimps, mining industry ducting and numerous other specialized products. Miller Weldmaster machines are used in 100 countries around the world and Al was known globally as a visionary for his inventiveness and knowledge of fabric welding. Al retired from the company in 2000. He served his country and was honorably discharged from both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. Among his many pastimes, he was a licensed fixed wing aircraft pilot as well as a helicopter pilot. Above all, he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, friend and an exceptional person to all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Christine A. (Novak) Miller whom he married on July 12, 1963; daughters, Lynn M. Todaro of Massillon, Alison L. & (Steve) McBride of Tuscarawas Twp; son, Scott A. & (Michelle) Miller of Tuscarawas Twp.; Eight grandchildren Meagan, Chad, Mason, Logan, Graham, Delaney, Sofia, & Emma and one great-grandchild Maddie; Brother Milton L. "Gus" & (Donna) Miller of Tuscarawas Twp.; Sisters Grace M. Ellis of Montrose, MI., Helen K. Madrigal of Loveland, CO. Friends may call Monday, April 29th from 5:00-8:00 at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon or one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 30th at 11:00 at Stanwood Community Church. Burial will be in Stanwood Cemetery.