Miles R. Maerz

Miles R. Maerz was born on November 27, 1963, and passed away on January 14, 2026. He lived a life filled with adventure, humor, and a fiercely loyal heart. He grew up alongside his siblings Jeff, Lori, Brad, and Marshall, traveling across the United States for his father’s work before the family ultimately rooted themselves in Casper, Wyoming—the place that always remained home, no matter where life took them.

Miles and his siblings spent many years helping their father with the family company, Maerz Drilling, working alongside Norman on numerous exploration drilling projects across the United States. That legacy of hard work and curiosity ran deep through the family and shaped much of who Miles became.

Miles’ time in the Navy was very short. He was stationed in San Diego, where he was honorably discharged for a knee injury during basic training. In his early twenties, his explorations outside of Wyoming began with the Navy and continued as he spent time in Africa, where he served as a superintendent in seismology for a very brief period. He later lived in Hawaii, adding yet another chapter to his adventurous spirit, before ultimately returning home to Casper—where his heart always belonged.

Known for his mountain‑man spirit, Miles was outgoing, stubborn in the best way, and never shied away from a lively debate—especially when it came to “sticking it to the man.” His humor was unforgettable, often delivered with a straight face and a mischievous spark. One of his classic lines was telling others to “punt me off the side of the mountain after I kick the can,” a joke only he could make both outrageous and endearing.

His craftsmanship was one of his greatest sources of pride and joy. Miles didn’t just make things—he poured his whole heart into them. His beadwork and jewelry were stunning, each piece created with a level of patience and precision that felt almost otherworldly. Even the coins he carved as a simple hobby carried meticulous detail, the kind of artistry that made you stop and marvel. Creating with his hands wasn’t just something he did; it was a reflection of who he was—steady, thoughtful, and quietly brilliant.

More than anything, Miles cherished his role as an uncle. He shared a close, meaningful bond with his nieces and nephews—Nathaniel, Valerie, Julie, Breanna, Levi, Samuel, Aaron, Derek, and Jordan—leaving each of them with memories shaped by laughter, stories, and his steady presence.

His love extended into the next generation as he welcomed his great‑nieces and great‑nephews: Jackson, George, Calvin, Mathew, Lily Bell, Nova, and Ella.

Miles had numerous family members and friends scattered across Colorado, Illinois, California, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Canada, though the majority of his family still live in Casper, Wyoming, the place that always remained home.

In his later years, Miles faced a long and difficult battle with cancer, the illness that ultimately took his life. Even then, he never lost his humor, his grit, or his ability to make others smile during the hardest moments.

Miles is now flying high with the loved ones who went before him. He is reunited with his parents, Marsha and Norman, and his oldest brother Jeff. Among the familiar faces greeting him is his best friend of many years, Kenny, ready to help guide him on this next journey—along with the countless loved ones whose paths he crossed in this life.

His journey continues beyond our sight, but his love stays here—rooted in us, steady as the mountains he adored.

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