Crookston, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – Family and friends are remembering Josh Russ Miller as a kind son, loyal friend, and devoted Vikings fan.
Josh, 48, of Crookston, died Thursday, November 6, 2025.
He passed away after a hemophilia medical emergency at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, with his mother at his side.
Early Life and School Years
Josh was born on August 21, 1977, in Ada, Minnesota.
He was the son of Ross Miller and Laurel Ystenes.
Josh attended several schools during his childhood.
His education included Fertile-Beltrami, Washington Elementary in Crookston, and Luella Merrett in Fort Worth, Texas.
He later studied at Ada-Borup West and Climax-Shelly.
Family members say this mix of schools helped shape his wide view of the world.
Josh Russ Miller, 48, of Crookston.
Health Challenges and Quiet Strength
Josh lived with serious health issues related to hemophilia.
More information about that condition is available from the National Hemophilia Foundation.
Despite many medical struggles, he rarely complained.
Family says he met each day with strength and calm.
Josh was known for a gentle, unhurried spirit.
He made people feel seen and heard.
He listened closely and treated every person as important.
Travel, Gaming, and Favorite Teams
Josh loved spending time with family and friends.
He enjoyed laughter, shared meals, and simple talks.
He was also an avid gamer and loved online play.
Josh was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan.
He followed games on television and in person.
A special highlight was seeing the team at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
Details on the stadium can be found on the U.S. Bank Stadium website.
He also enjoyed traveling and new places.
Memorable trips included New York City for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and the Rockettes.
He took a helicopter ride above the city skyline.
Other favorites were visits to Disneyland, Six Flags in Arlington, and road trips to Colorado, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks.
Information on those parks is available from the National Park Service.
Family, Cousins, and Beloved Pets
Josh is survived by his mother, Laurel Ystenes.
Friends say he was a wonderful son and a daily helper.
He shared his home with his much-loved cat, Princess Josie.
She was, by all accounts, very spoiled.
He is also survived by many aunts and uncles: Bob Miller, Susen Miller, Diann Prussia, Sharyn Gregor, Elaine Bitker, Karen Ingebretson, Pam Brownmiller, Jan Harpenau, Myrna Cigelske, Dee Larson, Arla Jensrud, Norma Johnson, Eileen Basile, and JoAnn Smith.
Josh also leaves many cousins, other relatives, and friends.
In recent years, he spent many happy hours gaming with his young second cousin, Kane.
Those sessions created special memories for both of them.
Josh was preceded in death by his father, Ross Miller.
He was also preceded by paternal grandparents Russ and Janice Miller, maternal grandparents William and Augusta Ystenes, uncles Willard Ystenes, Gordon Cigelske, Tim Brownmiller, Rick Harpenau, and Willard Johnson, aunt Avis Ystenes, cousins Shannon Larson and Corey Bitker, and pets Pookie, Spaz, Sabbath, and Lucky.
Celebration of Life and Online Guestbook
Josh’s family will hold a private Celebration of Life at a later date.
They invite friends to remember him through stories, games, and time with loved ones.
An online guestbook and obituary page are hosted by Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home.
Messages of condolence may be shared at stenshoelhouske.com.
Grief support resources are available through programs such as GriefShare and other local counseling services.
Family and friends say Josh will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and brave spirit.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
