Frank Andrea Miller

Background

Frank Andrea Miller was born on March 28, 1925, in Kansas City, Kansas, the United States.

Education

During World War II, Frank Miller served with the Third Army in Europe. After returning home, he followed in his father’s footsteps as a staff artist at the Kansas City Star.

Career

In 1951 Des Moines Register editor Kenneth MacDonald offered Frank Miller the position of the cartoonist. Miller s former teacher Karl Mattern, a Grant Wood contemporary, had recommended him for the job. Frank Miller was unable to accept for nearly 18 months because he was recalled for active duty with the Seventh Division (artillery) in the Korean War.

Eventually, the Millers moved to Des Moines, where he joined the staff of the Des Moines Register. Over the next 30 years, Frank Miller drew more than 10,000 cartoons. His caricatures and cartoons commented not only on national and international politics but also with wit and humor on the human condition. At the time of his death at the age of 57, his cartoons were syndicated in nearly 50 news-papers throughout the country.

In addition to producing cartoons, Frank Miller was an accomplished watercolorist. His work was noted for landscapes that featured rural towns, vintage buildings, and picturesque farmyards.

Personality

Frank Miller, who was plagued by a chronic alcohol problem, kept it a secret from the public and most of his colleagues until late in his life. After participating in a treatment program, he worked tirelessly to help others afflicted with the disease.

Connections

Frank Miller met his wife, Catherine, while they were both attending the Kansas City Art Institute. She worked as a fashion illustrator for Harzfeld’s department store while Miller served in the Korean War. The couple had two daughters, Melissa and Melinda.

Spouse:

Catherine Miller

Daughter:

Melissa

Daughter:

Melinda

References

• Hudson, D., Bergman, M., & Horton, L. (Eds.) The biographical dictionary of Iowa
  2009