Michael Miller, president of the Buffalo Central Terminal Restoration Corporation and newly hired director of Preservation Buffalo Niagara, passed away suddenly yesterday. He was also a co-founder of Broadway Fillmore Alive.
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Having spent more than two decades at M&T Bank, Michael was so excited for his new appointment with PBN, and PBN was excited to have him after a national search and review of over 35 applicants.
Michael was exceptional in his vision, did the tireless work of several people, and was truly loved by those who knew him and did business with him. He recently sat in at the WBFO studios for a taping of Buffalo Rising Roundtable, and said he'd like to come back for more. It was the longest show we'd ever taped because Michael was so involved with the community and had so much to say about this town and the buildings and people in it who drew his attention. Michael embodied the very idea of Buffalo on the upswing.
In our parting moments outside of Allen Hall on UB's campus, Michael talked about his plans for the terminal, saying that there was so much to be done, he didn't hope to see it all in his lifetime, and that any steps were good steps.
Newell shared a story this morning about Michael, and a time when he asked him why the terminal had caught his interest. Michael responded by saying that his father was a baggage handler at the terminal, and his mother worked in the cafe when they first met. Michael felt that his existence hinged on that fortuitous meeting of his parents in the once grand building, and he was drawn to it for this reason and so many more. It was a symbol of love for him, and he was bent on lovingly seeing to its restoration.
Our deepest condolences go out to Michael's family and friends in this time of sorrow.
So sorry to read this.