Donald R. Mills, 84, of Downsville, passed away Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022 in Downsville as a result of a motor vehicle accident.
Don was born March 31, 1938 in Walton, the son of the late Reginald and Isabelle (Knapp) Mills. Don was a blaster with the construction union in Nyack. He loved to spend time with his family, as he was the one who started the infamous “Mills Salute.” He was quiet, and a man of few words but when he did speak, the words were worth listening to.
Don enjoyed hunting and fishing, cutting wood, and caring for his plants. He also loved animals, especially cats and dogs. He was a member of the O+Y and Cavell Hunting Clubs.
Don is survived by his loving family, a brother James (Goldie) Mills; four sisters, Roxanne Bartolillo (Mike), Terry Allen, Mickey (Pat) McClenon and Tracey Wilson, all of Downsville; stepchildren Shirlee Winder of Oneida, and Sandra Hill of Manchester; three grandchildren, Samantha, Sonya and Sabrina; special friends John Grecco, Brian Becker and Doug Fitch; his faithful companion, Misty; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his stepdaughter Sharlene Winder-Smith of Ellenville, brothers and sisters Floyd (Reginald) Mills, Clark “Cork” Mills, William “Bill” Mills, Thomas “Tom” Mills, Bridget Mills, Eugene “Gene” Mills and Sandra “Sandy” Elmore.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Oct. 29, at 11 a.m. at Downsville American Legion, Post 167, 4466 River Road, Downsville. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton.
Memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society, P.O. Box 88, 46610 State Highway 10, Delhi, NY 13753. Condolences to the family may be made at courtneyfh.com.
