Last Sunday fantasy and science fiction fandom lost one of its greats. Chuck Miller of Underwood-Miller Inc. publishing passed away as a result of multiple organ failure at the age of 62.
The publishing partnership of Chuck and Tim Underwood began in 1976 and ended in 1994. During those 18 years the pair won numerous accolades for their books and publications, including being nominated for the World Fantasy Award in publishing five times, winning once in 1994. Chuck and Tim Underwood received a Milford Award for lifetime achievement in publishing that same year.
In addition to his publishing endevours, Chuck was a well known bookseller in Pennsylvania and a frequent dealer at various East Coast science fiction conventions. In recent years, he authored a number of “new pulp” adventures for Pro Se Productions, including a series of books featuring “The Black Centipede” and a vampire/Sherlock Holmes adventure published last year called Moriarty, Lord of the Vampires.
Back in the heady days of the 1970s Howard Boom, I came to know Chuck well and we corresponded quite frequently. He was a nice guy, always helpful and very generous. He sent me a review copy of the Howard book (Always Comes Evening) Underwood-Miller published and two chapbooks he published on his own (“Valley of the Lost” and “The Grey God Passes”). I recall Chuck sent me five copies of “The Grey God Passes,” all autographed by artist Walt Simonson, who illustrated the chapbook. Now that he is gone, I really regret losing touch with him.
Here is Chuck’s obituary:
Charles F. “Chuck” Miller, Jr., 62, of York, PA died on Sunday at Lancaster General Hospital.
Born in Columbia, PA, he was the son of the late Charles F., Sr. and Janet Wickenheiser Miller. Chuck was an independent book dealer and publisher and published over 150 books. He was a World Fantasy Award Winner in publishing science fiction. He was also nominated for the Hugo Award in science fiction publishing. He was a Graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School Class of 1970 and a Graduate of Millersville University Class of 1975 with a Bachelor of Education Degree.
Surviving is a Son: Kevin C. husband of Julie Miller of West Hempfield Tcrovwp., Daughters: Kathy F. Miller of Middletown, PA and Debora wife of Abe Bachman of Mountville, PA. 5 Grandchildren: Victoria, Mitchel, Taylor, Allison and Kara and his Best Friend: John husband of Patti Hartman of East Hempfield Tcrovwp. He was predeceased by a Brother: Chub Hilliard.
There will be a Visitation with the Family at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Friday, May 29, 2015 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am followed by remarks made by family members. Private Interment will be in Mountville Cemetery. The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial Contributions in Chuck’s memory may be made to the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic, 223 N. Lime St., Lancaster, PA 17602.
While not active in fandom or publishing in recent years, Chuck certainly made his mark on fantasy and science fiction publishing and will be missed by his many fans, friends and family members.
