Elizabeth Marie Hoffmann Miller, 86, of Chicago passed away December 15, 2024. Beth was a loving mother to Liesl (Kenneth) Orenic, Andrew (Tanya) Miller and John (Maia) Miller and a devoted grandmother to Frances and Lucinda Orenic, and Charlotte and Henry Miller. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Floyd G. Miller, her sister, Jane L. Hoffmann, and her parents, Armin and Janet Hoffmann.

Born and raised in Berlin, Wisconsin, a small town in the Fox River Valley near Oshkosh, Beth loved roller-skating, climbing trees, and going downtown to the movies. Her adventurous spirit led to her breaking her collarbone not once, but twice. A salutatorian of her high school class, she went on to study History and Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Northwestern University. After graduating from UW-Madison, Beth moved to Chicago, where she taught at Niles West High School, Jose De Diego Academy, A.G. Bell School and the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools over the years. As a teacher, she was creative and compassionate, eager to share her love of history with her students.

Her husband, Floyd, delighted in crediting her with the growth and success of their residential real estate business, where she earned the friendship and respect of many. Beth loved Chicago proudly, though she cherished her Wisconsin roots and family history dating to the 1840s.

Beth was an adventurous traveler and inspired a love of exploration in her children and grandchildren. She especially enjoyed visiting places she had studied in college and brought destinations to life by reading aloud stories during family trips. A dear friend to many, Beth was honored with several namesakes. In retirement, Beth found energy and purpose in supporting causes close to her heart including UCAN Chicago and Consonance – Chicago Choral Artists. She was generous, thoughtful, curious, and kind, giving the gift of her undivided attention and presence. Beth was a marvelous conversationalist who asked questions and listened carefully, sharing her thoughts with warmth and genuine engagement. Beth touched countless lives and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UCAN Chicago, Consonance – Chicago Choral Artists, or the University of Wisconsin History Department and the Alzheimer's Association. A Celebration of Life for family and friends is planned for late spring 2025