Kenneth "Doc" Milliken, Jr.

Kenneth “Doc” Milliken, Jr. 76 years old, passed away at 12:03 a.m. on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.  Doc was born on November 19, 1946 in South Bend to the late Kenneth and Theresa (Becchelli) Milliken, Sr.  He has remained a lifelong resident.  On October 25, 2014 in South Bend, Doc and the former Cheryl A. DuBois were united in marriage.

Along Cheryl, his loving wife, survivors include his three daughters, Traci (Stanley Aaron Morris) Milliken of Rutherfordton, NC, Christina (Eric Niyibizi) Milliken of South Bend and Erin (Ray) Milliken-Phillips of South Bend; three step-sons, Matthew (Jessica) Villa, Adam Villa and Justin Villa, all of South Bend; seven grandchildren, Zachary, Ryan, Cayden, Molly, Luke, Nolan, and Reagan; one great grandson on-the-way, Finnigan Michael; sister, Jeanette Miller of South Bend; and brother, Terry (Chris) Milliken of South Bend along with many beloved nieces and nephews. Doc was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Dominick “DJ” Milliken; grandson, Dominic; sister, Janice Scherpereel; and brother-in-law, Bo Miller.

Doc was employed by the city of south bend as a police officer for 51 years. He never accepted promotions that came his way because at his core, he was a community officer always wanting to “give everyone a fair shake” thus earning the title “the mayor of River Park”. Doc was incredibly family oriented and always brought everyone together over a hot grill and hearty laughs. He was an avid deer hunter and loved fishing, bowling, travel, and nature. He was a true outdoorsman. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend.  Pastor Jason Bowyer will officiate.  Graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery.  Friends may visit with the family from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, at the funeral home.  Friends may also visit with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday.

The family would like to thank Southern Care Hospice for their care and compassion, especially Lorie “Tizzy” DeNeve-Cowgill. Contributions in memory of Kenneth “Doc” Milliken, Jr. may be donated to Chiara Home, Inc., 1425 Clayton Drive, South Bend, IN  46614.  Online condolences may be offered to the Milliken family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.  

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