Robert J. Miller Jr., physical trainer and coach, passes away

DOWNEY – Robert John Miller Jr., also known as Bobby or Coach, died peacefully March 21 at Briarcrest Nursing Home in Bell Gardens. He was 62. 

Born May 11, 1954 at Mission Hills Hospital in Huntington Park, he was the oldest son of Robert John Miller and Marie Miller. 

He is survived by his two sisters, Stephanie Miller and Jodie Purnick; his brother, Dominick Miller, ex-spouse, Connie Cipollone; kids, Robert John Miller III, Jennifer Ramirez and Luis Soria; and grandchildren, Aria, Jacklynn, Joshua, Mieko, James and Joseph. 

He worked for the Downey Unified School District, teaching an adult school class at Downey High where he conducted boot camp-style fitness classes. He achieved popularity among faculty, administrators and sports teams, which he trained during season and off-season. 

He also worked for the Downey YMCA, spearheading innovative fitness programs. 

A viewing is scheduled for March 31 from 5-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Downey. A funeral service will take place April 1 in the First Baptist Church of Downey sanctuary at 3 p.m. All are welcome. 

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to offset funeral expenses. Checks can be mailed to Risher Mortuary, 1316 Whittier Blvd., Montebello CA 90640.