Gary Miller

From Black Hawk College to the Skies

Gary Miller graduated from United Township High School in 1958 before enrolling at Black Hawk College in 1962. He earned his associate degree in 1965 and later attended St. Ambrose University with plans to become a biology teacher.

In 1968, Gary chose a different path — pursuing a career in aviation. He earned his pilot license and went on to build a career spanning more than five decades as both a commercial airline pilot and flight instructor.

Gary retired from Air Wisconsin Airlines in 2000 after accumulating more than 20,000 flight hours as an airline captain and instructor. Even after retiring from flying, he continued serving as administrator of the airline pilots’ 401(k) retirement plan, a responsibility he had held since 1990, before fully retiring from the role in 2020.

A Lifetime of Aviation Excellence

Throughout his aviation career, Gary remained deeply committed to professionalism, safety, and mentorship within the industry.

In November 2021, he received the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award from the Federal Aviation Administration. The honor recognizes pilots who have demonstrated safe flight operations, professionalism, and aviation expertise for more than 50 years.

Gary was also active with the Commemorative Air Force at Airbase Arizona in Mesa, helping preserve and celebrate aviation history.

Service to Community and Family

Beyond aviation, Gary devoted significant time to civic leadership and community service. He served as a board member of the Air Line Pilots Association and as 5th Ward alderman for the city of East Moline.

He has also remained active with organizations including the Sons of the American Legion and the Rock Island County Historical Society.

Gary was a longtime member of Quad City Vintage Rods, a car club known for hosting annual car shows at Black Hawk College. Between 1984 and 2021, the organization donated more than $85,000 to the Black Hawk College Foundation and supported the foundation longer than any other contributing organization.

Alongside his professional and community accomplishments, Gary and his wife devoted themselves to family, raising two foster children in addition to their own two children — a reflection of their generosity, compassion, and commitment to helping others.