W. Miles Runner - October 28, 1933-April 23, 2010

Dad wrote his obituary and (with a few friendly edits) this is what he had to say.

Miles Runner, son of William E. (“Bill”) Runner and Helen E. Miles, began his life 28 October 1933 at Clarksburg, spending his younger years in Elkins and Clarksburg, and later Bridgeport, before retiring in Elkins. His school years at St. Mary’s High School in Clarksburg and Davis & Elkins College were happy times for him. Basketball was one of his passions and played from sixth grade through college (with a couple years service in the U.S. Army sandwiched in at that time). His last competitive game was at the Senior Games in 1997 at Tucson, Arizona.

Miles often said that he was not going to leave this world, but an apparent glitch in those plans occurred April 23, 2010, when he passed away. He leaves his lovely bride of nearly 55 years, Ruth “Noodie” Ritter Runner, and four sons: Wm. Harwood “Woody” Runner and his wife Susan of Fort Worth, Texas; John Miles Runner and his wife Charlene of Newport News, Virginia; Erik W. Runner and his partner Glenn Chandler of Mamaroneck, New York; and Michael “Mike” Runner of Bridgeport, West Virginia. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Kristen Runner of Fort Worth, Texas; Elizabeth and her husband Drew Parker of Houston, Texas; John Miles Runner II and his wife Kyoko of Newport News, Virginia; Christopher "Chris" Runner, a Clarksburg fireman; Jake and Molly Runner and their mom Trina, of Bridgeport; and a great grandson, Ichiro Miles Runner of Newport News, Virginia. He is also survived by his brother Terry Shorr of Charleston West Virginia, his sister Becky Runner Hunt of Manahawkin New Jersey and several nieces and nephews.

Miles was generally a pleasant person who loved his family very much. He was opinionated, readily expressing a point of view on most anything and everything. He enjoyed being politically incorrect and was amused frequently by the reactions of those unsure of his intentions.

Miles had a successful career with Mead Johnson Laboratories from 1961 through his retirement in 1990. He was active in the community, having served at one time or another through the years as volunteer coach for Pop Warner football and Jerry West basketball, participated in the Bridgeport Stagecrafters, and was a member of the Jaycees. Most recently, Miles was active with the Tygarts Valley Lions Club, Davis Health System Foundation Board, Davis & Elkins College Alumni Council and other organizations. He was one of the founders of the Central West Virginia Scientific Association, an organization formed to advance and expand the professional and social skills of its members.

An avid hat collector, his collection included a wide variety of hats from all over the world-Paraguay, England, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Barbados, and who knows where else. He even wore them on occasion and could usually "pull it off."

His two favorite holidays ( not necessarily in this order ) were St. Patrick's Day and Halloween, and he was known to don a dress if it would elicit a laugh. Robert W. Service was a favorite poet, especially his Cremation of Sam McGee. Miles dabbled in etymology, and just this past December declared himself a wag. As a member of the Brooks Bird Club he sometimes assisted with the fall banding and hawk counts. He diligently researched in preparation for his debates with grandson Miles, taking the opposition in whatever the subject.

Miles will be remembered for his sense of humor and for being a good friend. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and at least two bartenders in Elkins.

He had a very fulfilling and enjoyable life, often saying that he felt it was much better than he deserved. To quote him, "La vita e bella", life is good.

It was Miles' wish to be cremated, with no visitation and no service - just a party. The family invites friends to join them in the celebration of Miles' life, as per his wishes, at a date in the near future.

Expressions of sympathy may be made by way of contributions to the Harrison County Catholic Schools System, 127 East Pike Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301 or Davis & Elkins College Athletic Department, 100 Campus Drive, Elkins, WV 26241.