Ryken “Doc” Miller Obituary – Chester, Idaho: In Loving Memory of a Young Cowboy Who Passed Away in Tragic Accident

With hearts heavy with grief, the Miller family of Chester, Idaho, sadly announces the untimely death of their cherished son and brother, 9-year-old Ryken “Doc” Miller. He passed away in a tragic accident on February 9, 2025. Doc’s radiant spirit and love for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him, and his memory will forever be a beacon of love and joy in the lives of his family, friends, and community.

A true cowboy at heart, Doc lived a life full of energy, adventure, and boundless curiosity. From a young age, he embodied the spirit of the farm, learning from the land, the animals, and the people around him. Born to Weston and Jinny Miller, Doc was a natural. His passion for the ranch life was evident as soon as he could walk. It wasn’t just a lifestyle for him, it was the air he breathed and the rhythm to which he lived.

From the moment he could stand, Doc was beside his dad, Weston, tending to the family’s land, fixing fences, and herding cattle. A perfect little partner, always at his dad’s side, he learned the ways of the farm in the most joyful and effortless manner. He spent countless hours on horseback, riding Jo, his favorite horse, galloping across the open fields with an unmatched zeal for life. Riding was not just a pastime for Doc – it was where he felt truly free.

Doc’s love for the animals that surrounded him was unparalleled. He was known for his natural ability to care for and understand them better than many adults. Whether it was feeding the cows, checking on the pigs, or helping to bring in the newborn calves, Doc was always eager to be involved. His heart and soul were as vast as the open fields he roamed, and his gentle yet firm hands ensured that the animals he cared for were always well-fed, protected, and loved.

Though he had many duties on the farm, Doc never lost sight of the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid fisherman, known to spend hours by the river with his father, casting lines and sharing stories of their adventures. Doc’s fishing skills were unmatched for a boy his age. Just one day before his tragic passing, he proudly out-fished his grandfather, Papa Miller, catching 17 fish during their time together on the river.

Doc’s adventures weren’t confined to the ranch. He also loved the outdoors, whether he was hiking the hills surrounding his home, looking for critters to catch, or taking part in the occasional hunting trip with his father. But it wasn’t just about the thrill of the chase—it was about the bond he shared with his family during these moments. Doc found joy in the company of those he loved, and his infectious laughter echoed through the hills as he shared these moments with his dad, his little siblings, and his beloved grandparents.

Doc’s bond with his family was truly special. He was the proud and loving big brother to his younger siblings, Dixie and Dex. He showed them the ways of the farm, teaching them everything he knew and always ensuring they had a good time along the way. Whether it was playing pretend adventures, building forts, or exploring the fields together, Doc was the protector and guide, always with a kind word and a helping hand.

His grandparents, Papa Miller and Mama Miller, played an integral role in his life. The time he spent with them was marked by love, laughter, and the joy of sharing stories and adventures. One of his most treasured memories was fishing with Papa Miller, a tradition that they shared on many occasions. Doc was incredibly proud of the time he spent with his grandparents, always eager to show them what he had learned and experienced. The trip to the river, where he out-fished Papa Miller, will remain one of the most cherished moments of his life.

Doc’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him. He was the type of boy who brightened every room he entered with his infectious smile, his easy laughter, and his adventurous spirit. His zest for life was contagious, and his kindness and compassion made him beloved by all.

Though Doc’s life was tragically cut short, his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His family, who remains heartbroken, will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward the values he embodied: love for the land, respect for animals, and the importance of family. They will never forget the love and joy he brought into their lives.

Doc’s story is one of a young boy who loved with all his heart, who found happiness in the simple moments, and who lived with an infectious enthusiasm for life. He may no longer walk among us, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him. The Miller family asks for privacy during this difficult time as they grieve the loss of their beloved Ryken “Doc” Miller.

Ryken “Doc” Miller was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Papa Miller, and his maternal great-grandparents, who will welcome him with open arms in heaven. He is survived by his parents, Weston and Jinny Miller; his siblings, Dixie and Dex; his maternal grandparents, Papa Jenkins and Mama Jenkins; his paternal grandmother, Mama Miller; his aunts, uncles, cousins, and an entire community who adored him.

A celebration of Doc’s life will take place on February 14, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Chester Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Chester Children’s Ranch Fund to help support local children in need.