'A huge loss': Milwaukee's Jewish community mourning philanthropist

’A huge loss’: Milwaukee’s Jewish community mourning philanthropist
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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- People in Milwaukee are mourning the loss of a prominent figure in the Jewish community.

Todd Miller, 61, was killed Monday in a tragic crash on Highway 145.

His longtime friend, Alan Borsuk, said it’s an immense loss. “Todd was an extraordinarily energetic person. He was totally committed to things. Big personality. When he walked in a room, he was the center of attention.”

As a businessman, Miller was heavily involved in projects. As a philanthropist, he helped establish the Yeshiva Elementary School on the northwest side, in the late 1980’s. He also helped build other educational institutions.

Miller also supported the Friendship Circle, a nonprofit that serves kids and adults with special needs. “He went and made a difference, he really stood out and really, not just talk, but action,” said Rabbi Levi Stein, director of Friendship Circle.

Miller’s daughter Shira is part of the program, and has been handling the tragic news in her own unique way.

“If someone wanted to get emotional and wanted to cry, she just said, 'crying is not my father. Here we have to talk about happy times,'” Stein said.

Those who knew Miller believe everyone can learn something by the way he lived his life. “Yes, you can accomplish a lot,” added Borsuk. “You can weight into things and really do good things.”

Miller leaves behind a wife, seven children, many grandchildren and countless beloved friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking memorial contributions be made to Friendship Circle Bakery, Congregation Beth Jehudah, Torah Academy of Milwaukee, Wisconsin Institute for Torah Study, or Yeshiva Elementary School.

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