Vern began his career with the Ontario Provincial Police in May of 1967 and was posted to Matheson, only twenty-five miles from his home town of Timmins. Throughout his time in Matheson, Vern actively participated within his community through playing sports himself and by coaching young people in all forms of sports.

Vern and partner had stopped for coffee the night of November 16, 1984. A young man who had decided that he was going to kill a police officer that night entered the coffee shop and shot Officer Miller point blank in the back of the head.

To honor this fallen officer and in appreciation for his dedication and involvement in the community, the local arena was named after him.

Vern Miller was survived by his wife and three children.