Maynard Malcolm Miller, explorer, committed educator and noted scientist - whose glaciological research was among the first to identify hard evidence of global climate change as a result of human industrial activity - died Jan. 26, 2014, at his home in Moscow. He was 93.
Dr. Miller was emeritus professor at the University of Idaho, where he previously served as dean of the College of Mines and Earth Resources, and director of the Glaciological and Arctic Sciences Institute. The Institute, along with the Juneau Icefield Research Program, was founded in 1946 and developed in partnership with his late wife, Joan Walsh Miller. It inspired more than 4,000 students through hands-on involvement in scientific research in remote mountain environments in Alaska and around the world. (www.juneauicefield.com)
As a scientist and climber on America's first Mount Everest Expedition in 1963, Miller conducted research on atmospheric pollution and other contributors to climate change. On that historic expedition, as the west ridge climbers returned from the summit, Miller sacrificed his precious scientific water samples - laboriously collected from the Khumbu Icefall - in order to rehydrate the exhausted climbers.
Although a deeply spiritual person, Maynard Miller did not believe in any God of organized religion; instead, he found inspiration in the magnificence and wonder of nature. He also believed that through the challenge of rugged mountain expeditions, where teamwork is essential to achieve a common goal, the best in each individual may be revealed. His great joy was to share and provide these experiences for others.
A native of the Northwest, Miller graduated from Stadium High School in Tacoma. He studied geology and glaciology, receiving degrees from Harvard University and Columbia University, and his Ph.D. from Cambridge University in England. During World War II, Miller served on a U.S. Navy destroyer, seeing active duty in 11 major Pacific campaigns and sustaining injuries during an aircraft attack at sea. Late in life, Miller served three terms in the Idaho State House of Representatives, where he advocated for expanding educational opportunities.
He will be remembered for his enthusiasm, unrelenting optimism and phrases such as, "stress helps you grow" and his closing on mountain radio transmissions, "mighty fine, mighty fine."
Miller is survived by his sons and their spouses, Ross Miller (Denise), and Lance Miller (Jana). Miller also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Logan, Anna, Zachary and Eva; extended family in the Puget Sound area; as well as scores of grateful students, scientific collaborators and co-adventurers.
Celebrations of the life of Maynard Malcolm Miller will be announced at a future date.
The photograph of Dr. Miller is by Ira Spring on a Juneau Icefield Expedition in November 1953.
