Millie Wiley, 77, Minot and formerly of Colby and Hays, Kansas, died Monday, October 12, 2026 in a Minot assisted living facility.

Marilla Marie Klinzmann Wiley born on May 1, 1949 to Fred and Freda Klinzmann in Smith Center, Kansas, in the back of a car outside the hospital. She was raised with her older sister Trylla Klinzmann (Dole) in Agra, Kansas, where she graduated from Eastern Heights High School in 1967. She then attended Fort Hayes State University where she graduated with a degree in home economics in 1970.

Acquaintances from early childhood, she and Larry Wiley began dating while still in high school and married in September of 1970. She soon began supporting Larry through premed and chiropractic school by teaching in Agra, Ellis, and Moline, IL. While in Iowa, they welcomed their two children, Mo (Monte) Anson and Carrie Maria Wiley (Willems). The family then moved to Hays where Larry practiced for 21 years. During that time Millie enjoyed raising the kids, working in the chiropractic office, and serving as church secretary for North Oak Community Church. Larry and Millie also deeply valued the foster parent program for baseball students at Fort Hayes and considered these ‘bonus kids,’ especially Todd Hartley, with whom they’ve stayed in close contact. In 1997, Larry and Millie moved to Colby, KS, where they lived until shortly after his passing in February of 2024. She then moved to Minot, ND, where she enjoyed investing in her grandchildren and great grandchild.

Millie loved raising the kids; sewing and quilting; traveling to Colorado, California, and Arizona with Larry; and laughing over many games of cards, especially pinochle. She spent countless hours hosting friends and family for abundant feasts and games. Millie would never turn down Alaska king crab legs and any combination of chocolate and peanut butter. An animal lover from early childhood, especially her many beloved dogs, Millie enjoyed time spent with pets, who were always a source of joy for her. Millie was known and treasured for her easygoing manner and infectious laughter. She will be deeply missed by countless family and friends.

Preceded in death by her husband Larry; parents Fred and Freda; and brother-in-law, John Dole. Survivors include son Mo (Tara) Wiley; daughter Carrie (Dan) Willems; grandchildren Ethan (Heili), Bella, Dexter, and Kate; great-grandchildren Oaks and Oliver. 

A Celebration of Millie's Life: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Pursuit Church, Minot.

A Celebration of Life Service for Colorado and Kansas family will take place on November 6, 2026.