It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ethan Ronald Miller, a beloved student from Brockport, New York, who passed away on October 5, 2023, after a brave and courageous battle with lymphoma. Ethan was just 19 years old when he left this world, leaving behind a lasting legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication. Born on November 3, 2003, Ethan touched the lives of many, and his impact on his community, family, and friends will never be forgotten.
Ethan was a graduate of Brockport High School, Class of 2022, where he was known not only for his academic excellence but also for his infectious smile and generosity. At the time of his passing, Ethan was pursuing his studies at SUNY Brockport, majoring in History and Special Education. His dream was to become a teacher and share his love for history with future generations, a goal that reflected his passion for education and his desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Throughout his life, Ethan was known for his gentle, loving nature. He had an innate ability to make those around him feel valued and cared for. Whether it was offering a kind word or lending a helping hand, Ethan’s presence was a source of comfort to those who knew him. His warmth and compassion were reflected in the relationships he cultivated with family, friends, and even those who had just met him. Ethan had a rare quality: the ability to make everyone feel special, and his kindness was felt by all who crossed his path.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Ethan was an avid athlete. He was passionate about sports and enjoyed playing soccer, tennis, and track during his high school years. His dedication to these activities was a testament to his competitive spirit and his ability to work as part of a team. He found joy in being active and participating in athletic events, and his teammates and coaches remember him as someone who always gave his best effort. His love for sports also carried over into his everyday life, and his family fondly remembers watching him play, cheering him on as he pursued his athletic passions.
Beyond his athletic and academic achievements, Ethan had a deep love for reading and learning. He was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, especially when it came to history, his chosen field of study. Ethan enjoyed exploring different topics and expanding his horizons through books. He also treasured spending time with his family, particularly on family trips, which allowed him to bond with his loved ones and create memories that would last a lifetime. Another special part of Ethan’s life was his family’s cabin, a place where he cherished moments of peace, reflection, and togetherness. These experiences shaped who Ethan was and gave him a deep appreciation for the beauty of life and the importance of family and community.
Ethan’s passing has left a profound void in the lives of his family and friends. He is survived by his father, Foster Miller; his mother, Gabrielle Haibach; his twin brother, Jacob Miller; his older brother, Tyler Miller; and his maternal grandparents, Ronald and Arlene Miller, all of Brockport, NY. Ethan’s family was incredibly important to him, and the bond he shared with them was one of love, loyalty, and support. His brothers, especially his twin, Jacob, will forever hold a special place in their hearts for the bond they shared growing up together. Ethan’s parents, Foster and Gabrielle, are devastated by the loss of their son, and their grief is compounded by the loss of such a bright and promising young life. They take comfort, however, in knowing that Ethan’s memory will continue to live on in the many lives he touched and the lessons he imparted.
In honor of Ethan’s life and his love for education, the Miller family has established a Memorial Scholarship in his name through Brockport High School. The scholarship is intended to support students who are pursuing their education, a cause that was near and dear to Ethan’s heart. His family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to this scholarship fund to help further Ethan’s legacy of supporting education. The scholarship will provide future generations of students with the opportunity to follow in Ethan’s footsteps by pursuing their dreams, just as he had done in his own academic journey.
A celebration of Ethan’s life was held on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at the Salmon Creek Country Club in Spencerport, NY, where family, friends, and loved ones gathered to share memories and pay their respects. The event was an opportunity for all who knew Ethan to come together and honor the life of a young man who left a lasting impact on the world. During the gathering, friends and family reflected on the qualities that made Ethan so special: his kindness, his determination, his passion for learning, and his love for those around him. The outpouring of love and support at the memorial highlighted just how deeply Ethan’s presence was felt in the community, and how much he meant to those who had the privilege of knowing him.
While the pain of losing Ethan is immeasurable, his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. His dedication to learning, his commitment to family, and his positive influence on his peers will never be forgotten. Ethan’s journey was one of promise, passion, and love for others, and his memory will serve as a beacon of light for those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.
For those who wish to contribute to the Memorial Scholarship or learn more about Ethan’s life and legacy, the Miller family invites you to visit the Farrell-Ryan Funeral & Cremation Services website, where details about the fund and how to contribute are available. The scholarship will be an enduring tribute to Ethan’s love for education and his desire to make a difference in the lives of others. As the community continues to mourn his passing, the Miller family is grateful for the outpouring of support and for the opportunity to continue Ethan’s mission of uplifting and empowering young people.
Ethan Ronald Miller may no longer be with us, but his impact will continue to resonate in the lives of those he touched. His memory will be carried forward through the scholarship, through the stories shared by his family and friends, and through the love and kindness he spread during his time on this earth. Rest in peace, Ethan—you will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.
