Ken Miller, the esteemed former head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, passed away on Wednesday in Asheville, North Carolina, at the age of 82, following a brief battle with cancer. Miller, whose leadership and warmth left an indelible mark on the Canadian Football League (CFL), was cherished by players, fans, and colleagues alike.
Miller’s tenure with the Roughriders spanned five prosperous seasons, including a Grey Cup Championship in 2007 as the team’s offensive coordinator. He later led the team to two more Grey Cup appearances in 2009 and 2010 as head coach. Known for his genuine kindness and effective leadership, Miller was inducted into the SaskTel Plaza of Honour as a builder in 2022, recognizing his significant contributions to the team and the community.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders expressed their deep sorrow in a statement, saying, "Ken was a beloved leader of men, and his presence was felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. We will miss him dearly."
Fans and former players took to social media to share their condolences and memories of Miller. Theresa White Butt wrote, "Rip Ken Miller. You were one of the best." Regan Smith added, "RIP Kenny, you were one of the good ones!" Howard Holitski remembered Miller’s positive influence, stating, "Rip Ken. Hoping everyone in the world would be happy like you." Meanwhile, Matt Dominguez, a former player under Miller, expressed his gratitude, saying, "One of the best coaches I ever played for. And one of the best men I ever knew."
Miller’s impact extended beyond his coaching acumen. His ability to connect with players on a personal level, empowering them to excel both on and off the field, was a hallmark of his coaching philosophy. As Weston Dressler, a fellow 2022 Plaza inductee, remarked, "We’d run through a brick wall for that guy."
Despite his passing, Miller’s legacy will continue to inspire those who had the honor of working with him, as well as the broader football community. The world has lost not just a great coach, but a truly remarkable human being.