Rick H. Miller, 72, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026, at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of his beloved wife, Patrice; his daughter, Rachel; his son, Patrick; and the many relatives and friends whose lives he touched.

Rick was born on April 28, 1954, in Bangor, Maine, to Rena Mae Arrighi and Fredrick Herman Miller, Jr. His parents divorced when he was young and his mother returned to her hometown of Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she would raise Rick and his brother, John, and would later meet and marry Russel Cappel. Rick graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1972. Following graduation, he briefly attended the University of Southern California on an ROTC scholarship before continuing his education in New Mexico.

In 1979, Rick began his career with Hewlett-Packard and moved to Loveland, Colorado. It was there that he met Patrice in 1980. After accepting a position with Intel, Rick and Patrice moved to Albuquerque in 1984. They were married on May 26, 1985, at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch in Loveland, Colorado. They welcomed their daughter, Rachel, in 1986, followed by their son, Patrick, in 1988. In 1989, Rick returned to work for Hewlett-Packard and the family moved back to Fort Collins, Colorado, where they continued building their life together.

Throughout his career, Rick remained committed to learning and furthering his education, earning his BSBA in Management from Regis University in 1994. After spending many years with Hewlett-Packard, he began a new career with the United States Department of Agriculture before eventually returning to New Mexico with Patrice in 2006. Back in Albuquerque, Rick began working for the United States Department of the Interior, where he continued his career until his retirement in 2023.

Rick had a love for travel and was fortunate to experience many beautiful places throughout his life. He especially cherished the adventures he shared with Patrice, including their recent trip of a lifetime to Spain, Italy, London, and Scotland, creating memories they would treasure forever. Rick had a curious mind and a lifelong love of learning, always eager to discover something new and find a way to put that knowledge to use. Music was another joy in his life and it was not uncommon to hear him whistling or humming a familiar tune. He also had a playful side that often caught people by surprise, especially when he showed off his dancing skills. Whether exploring somewhere new, sharing something he had learned, or simply enjoying a favorite song, Rick had a way of bringing his own unique spirit and joy to the moments that made life special.

Rick’s final months brought an unexpected health challenge when he was diagnosed with cancer in late July 2026. He underwent surgery in mid-September and was doing well in his recovery, with high hopes for the journey ahead. His sudden passing just weeks later was an unexpected and heartbreaking loss for his family.

Rick’s life was defined not only by his accomplishments and adventures, but by the relationships he built and the family he loved. He will be remembered for his loving nature, his ability to see the good in others, and the warmth and care he shared with those around him. The memories he created and the love he gave will remain a lasting part of the lives of those who knew him.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Patrice; his daughter, Rachel (Mike) Kindsfather; his son, Patrick Miller; and his grandchildren, Kolten, Delainey, Maddox, Rebecca, Scarlett, Padmé, Anna-Rose, and Eloise. He is also survived by his brother, John (Marcia) Miller; his sister, Peggy Floyd (Rick); his aunt, Sandi (Bob) Miner; and his nephew, JR (Shantelle) Miller.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rena Cappel; stepfather, Russel Cappel; mother-in-law, Isabelle Opperud; father-in-law, Lloyd Opperud; aunt, Carol Polaco; brother-in-law, Richard Opperud; niece, Nicole Miller; cousin, Luther Garcia; and dear friend, Mike Ortega.

Rick will also be remembered fondly by his many cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends, including Karen Garcia; Kirt Pulaski; Kelli (Tom) Bosman; Kenny Patton; Bill (Sandy) Arrighi; Elisa (Matthew) Chavez; Elreena Garcia; Mona (Jim) Breuer; Beverly Opperud; Charlene Bekkerus; Cindy (David) Schmidt; Ted (Rose) Wheaton; Steve (Nancy) Kunkler; and Elaine Gonzales.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to their friend and neighbor, Ed (Penny) Fogleman, and to the Albuquerque emergency responders for their swift response, compassionate care, and support during an incredibly difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Rick’s memory to make a donation in his name to a charity meaningful to them. Organizations that have been important to the family include St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the American Cancer Society, and the Interfaith Community Shelter at Pete’s Place.

A private viewing was held. A small Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.