Miller, Edith Catherine (Slifka)

Edith Catherine (Slifka) Miller, 96, of Elkader, died Saturday, June 25, 2011, at Central Community Hospital in Elkader. She was born on June 7, 1915, in Cresco, the daughter of Michael and Leona (Lewis) Slifka. Edith attended and graduated from Cresco High School. She then moved to West Union and worked nine years as a receptionist for Dr. King.

On Sept. 11, 1939, Edith was united in marriage to George Miller at the Holy Name Catholic Church in West Union. In 1947, they bought the LEN-HA-HA Dairy in Elkader, which they renamed and operated as the Miller Ice Cream Company. Together they operated a very successful business that became a household name for its one of kind quality ice cream. The business offered home delivery milk, hand packed ice cream, soda fountain and over the years expanded to rural delivery of their dairy products. George and Edith retired and sold their dairy business in 1977.

For many years Edith and her husband enjoyed their cabin on the Mississippi River and after retirement enjoyed traveling in their motor home. Edith treasured seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, George Miller of Elkader; one daughter, Georgana (Alan) Johnson of Elkader; two grandchildren, Kristine A. (Jonathan) Feist of Cedar Rapids, and Gregory A. (Abby) Johnson of North Liberty; and four great-grandchildren, Andrew and Allie Feist and Alana and Avery Johnson.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Leona Slifka; three brothers, Mike, Donald and William Slifka; and four sisters, Helen, Madeline, Margaret and Grace.

Condolences may be left with: www.leonardfuneralhomes.com.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elkader. Celebrant: The Very Rev. Paul Peters.

Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 28, at Leonard Funeral Home in Elkader, and one hour before services Wednesday.

Interment: St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, Elkader.