Hatch praises Miller in Congress

Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, joined Thursday what has become a parade of praise for Larry H. Miller in Congress, and gave a Senate speech honoring him as "someone who worked for the good of our state and its people, instead of furthering his own ambitions."

Hatch — as Sen. Bob Bennett and Rep. Jason Chaffetz did before him this week — retold how Miller rose from being an automobile parts clerk to creating a vast business empire.

"The risks he took were enormous," Hatch said. But his "empire grew to include many car dealerships, movie theaters, restaurants, television and radio stations, a first-class sports arena, a race track, sports memorabilia and apparel stores, a professional baseball team and, of course, our cherished Utah Jazz."

Hatch added, "I cannot think of Larry without picturing him at so many events, no matter the importance, in his trademark casual pants and golf shirt. He was a man who lived by his own creed, and never let anyone else define him."

Hatch said, "Utah lost a great man, and I lost a treasured friend. Throughout the years of my service in the U.S. Senate, I would often look to Larry Miller for his wisdom and strength."

Hatch concluded, "Larry did live an extraordinary life, and I honor him for the contributions he made to Utah, its citizens, and most importantly to his family. His influence will never be forgotten."

Meanwhile, Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. told the Deseret News that the state will take some action to memorialize Larry H. Miller, who died a week ago.

Huntsman declined to be more specific, saying "it is still a secret; we're still working on it," but it could include naming some state-funded entity after Miller. The announcement will not be ready, however, before Miller's funeral in the EnergySolutions Arena Saturday.

The state memorial will not require legislative action, however, the governor said. Lawmakers themselves will soon vote on a commemorative resolution honoring the Utah Jazz owner and entrepreneur.

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