Vancouver firefighter Andrew Miller, 29, was struck by an automobile while walking near his home while off-duty. He was treated on the scene by two crews from the Vancouver Fire Department and AMR and transported to Peace Health Southwest Washington Medical Center with life threatening injuries. He succumbed to those injuries at approximately 12 a.m. on April 1.
"We are proud of Andrew and all that he accomplished. The news is a tremendous loss to both Andrew's family and the Vancouver Fire Department family," said Vancouver Fire Chief Joe Molina.
Andrew had been a member of the Vancouver Fire Department since September 2011. He worked as a Firefighter/EMT and was a member of the Vancouver Firefighter's Union, Local 452.
Andrew grew up in Spokane, Wash., where he graduated from Rogers High School and completed an Associate of Arts degree in Fire Science and General Studies from Spokane Community College. He previously served as a resident firefighter in Spokane County Fire District 10 in Airway Heights, outside of Spokane.
"This is a very sad day for the city. The entire Vancouver City Council extends our condolences to the Miller family," said Vancouver Mayor Timothy D. Leavitt.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Vancouver Firefighters Community Assistance Fund at 2807 N.W. Fruit Valley Road, Vancouver, WA 98660.
I miss you man! You made me laugh often, showed up whenever someone needed a hand and were like a brother to me and so many others. Those who knew you will never forget you and that is how you will always be here with us.
Love You Big Guy,
Jason Stearns
I have been thinking about you and feeling the presence of your spirit and now I know why. You weren't huge on making a big deal about your birthday but I am. Just know you are greatly missed and never forgotten. I love you man! Jason
-Suzanna
I wish I had more time with you. I wish life didn't get crazy at times and that I could've seen you more these past few months. It's hard not to dwell on these things when tragedy strikes, but instead of drowning in regret, I'm finding comfort in the memories that we do have. You are one of the most caring people I have ever met in my life. Just a big goofy sweetheart that would do anything for the people in your life. You touched a lot of people's lives that way and nobody will ever forget the way that you made them feel. Thank you for blessing me with your friendship. I wish I wasn't forced to think of memories, and we could continue to create new ones. I wish that I could still call you and tell you I'll be there in 10, I'm coming over to watch a movie, but in the end I'm glad to have spent time with you. Thank you for being you, I will forever miss you.
One of my best memories with Andrew was helping him install carpet in a church for his final project to become an Eagle Scout. At one time, he had mentioned to me that he was tired of scouts and wanted to quit. As I was encouraging him to continue and telling him what an accomplishment it was, I noticed that this young kid was actually taking it in and was listening to every word I said. He knew early on that he wanted to be a fire fighter and I told him being an Eagle Scout may help him fulfill that dream.
Through out the years when most young adults move on with their lives, they usually don't have time to stay in contact with their friends parents. Not Andrew. I would get messages out of the blue just to see how things were going and how the family was doing. He always made me feel like he cared for us. I'm glad I that I had the opportunity to tell him how proud I was of him for fulfilling his dream of firefighting.
Really going to miss his sarcasm and trash talk during football season.
RIP Andrew, we'll all see ya someday.
John, Karen, Craig & Carol, and Sean Weidert
Leave a Tribute
Never Forgoten
Im writing you today to let you know that I have not and will not let the memory of my good friend Andrew Miller fade way. Today you would have turned 32 years of age. No telling what you would have been doing, who you would have been surrounded by or where you would be. I do know that I would have made every effort to be a part of your special day, to celebrate you and all that is Andrew Miller. I think about you from time to time, every time feeling the loss. I feel you looking down and laughing at all that we focus on in the world and you having more peace inside your soul in the kingdom of heaven. If it is God's will, I hope to see you again and I will continue to honor you until then.
Love and Miss you Andrew Miller,
Jason Stearns
From Child to Outstanding Adult
I haven't seen Andrew since he was a child... but from his Aunt Paula, I know that he became an outstanding and impressive man.
I'm so sorry his life was cut short before society was able to benefit from his gifts and qualities.
I also want to thank Trevor for his military service.
So much sympathy for Andrew's family. And for the Vancouver firefighters who will miss him.
Sarah