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In Memoriam: Jared Miller (March 13, 1980 – Dec. 9, 2021)

Jared John Miller, 41, passed away Dec. 9, 2021 surrounded by his wife, father, sister, and best friend. Jared was born March 13, 1980 in Richland, Washington to Dennis and Waldeen Miller.

He grew up with his younger sister, Cassie Lange and younger brother, Steven Miller in the Wenas Valley in Yakima County. It was there with his great-grandparents that he developed his lifelong love of fishing, hunting and being in the wilderness.

Before high school, Jared moved to Portland, Oregon to live with his father and stepmother, Kelly Miller. While in high school he participated in golf and football until sidelined by an injury. He continued his education at Western Oregon University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Law Enforcement.

Jared’s career with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office spanned from 2005 until his death. While a member of the MCSO, he worked as a corrections deputy, field training officer, survival skills instructor and as a negotiator on the SWAT team. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2019 and at the time of his passing, he was a supervisor in the Marion County Jail.

In June 2007, Jared met his future wife, Jolene Plas; they married in the summer of 2010. Jolene and Jared exemplified the kind of love that others wish for. Their free time was spent living life to the fullest, sharing countless adventures and creating lasting memories. 

While Jared may not have had children of his own, he was a role model to many. Not only colleagues at MSCO and their families but to his nephew, Kayden and his best friend’s son, Mason.

Jared is survived by his wife, Jolene Miller; father, Dennis Miller; sister, Cassie Lange; brother, Steven Miller; grandfather, Walter Briscoe as well as his mother and father-in-law, Donna and Joe Plas. He was preceded in death by his stepmother, Kelly Miller; and mother, Waldeen Drake. His absence will be felt greatly not only by his wife and family but also by his friends and his law enforcement family. A memorial service will take place at a later date.