Robert L Miles

Robert Miles, affectionately known as Papa, Bobbie Lee, Robert, or Bob, was born on April 1, 1931, in Knoxville, Iowa, and passed away in Stuart, Florida, on March 8, 2026. The second son of Forest and Fern Miles, he was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, one sister, and his beloved wife of 68 years, Norma Elaine Perrin Miles, whom he met in high school and married on April 16, 1949. He cared for Norma with devotion for more than three years as she battled Alzheimer’s until her passing in 2017.

Bob worked as a labor liaison for Blue Cross & Blue Shield in Michigan, where he interacted with Jimmy Hoffa and the Auto Workers of America. He was one of the founding fathers of the City of Kentwood, Michigan, before fulfilling a longtime wish in 1969 by moving his family to Florida. They settled in Plantation, where he embraced the small-town atmosphere. Over the years he worked in construction, opened a labor pool company, and sold Iowa Beef before discovering his true calling in real estate. He built a highly successful career alongside Norma, their daughter Pam, son-in-law Jim, and granddaughter Missi. Even after retiring to Port St. Lucie, he continued selling real estate as a top agent until 2013.

Known for his brightly colored matching outfits, quick wit, and optimistic expressions such as “It’s a beautiful day” and “Life is beautiful,” Bob approached every morning with gratitude. He loved to travel, cruise, explore new places, and simply “go” anywhere an invitation arose. His adventurous spirit led him to skydive at age 90 and again on his 94th birthday. In his final four years at The Point Independent Living Facility in Stuart, he remained a friend to everyone, brightening spirits and sharing positivity.

Bob was preceded in death by two daughters, Darci Jo Miles at age 16 and Lori Kay Rubino at age 59. He is survived by his daughters Pamela Sue Sullivan of Plantation, Florida, and Chari Lee Miles of Stuart, Florida, along with 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren (with one more on the way), and four great-great-grandchildren (with one more on the way). His family will remember him for growing older with grace, kindness, and an unwavering love for them all. He taught them to live with respect, gentleness, and optimism, and his final message of “1.4.3.7.—I love you forever” remains a lasting gift to every generation that follows.