A Tribute to Norman Nees Miller
It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Norman Miller, a strong supporter of INAWARA, a lifelong advocate for those accused of witchcraft and victims of ritual attacks, and a friend to many.
Norman was born in Rochester, Minnesota in 1933 and raised by his mother and extended family after the death of his father. After graduating from college, Norman served in the US Air Force from 1956-1959, reaching the rank of Captain. Following his military service, Norman was unclear what he wanted to do in life, so for the next two years he travelled, circumnavigating the globe on foot, train, boat and plane. After taking a boat from India to the port of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Norman fell in love with East African people, cultures and environment. Norman subsequently earned a PhD in Political Anthropology and African Studies and became Professor of Michigan State.
Norman went on to publish over 90 articles and seven books focused on East African politics, development, HIV/AIDS, wildlife management, traditional healing, witchcraft and cross-cultural medicine. He was an advisor to the Kenyan Government, USAID, and the WHO, in addition to working for the United Nations and the US State Department. His international projects and personal love for travel led him to visit a total of 95 countries. He retired in 2012 but continued to pursue his own projects in Vermont and East Africa. When not on the tractor, or puttering at his workbench, he could be found scratching out his latest ideas with a red pen on a rolled yellow pad (or even a napkin).
Equal parts intellectual and playful, Norman had a special blend of curiosity. He encouraged those around him to be carefree with a strong sense of self, and to engage in their surroundings. His enthusiasm for learning, meeting people, and exploring the world left an impression on all who knew him. He will be remembered for his playful curiosity and his unwavering love for his family, friends, and community.
Norman Nees Miller died on December 6th, 2024 at the age of 91. He leaves behind his wife Judith, two children and four grandchildren.
An online guest book is available to leave Norman’s family a message of condolence by visiting Ricker Funeral Home.
