Derrick “Mont”‘s Obituary
MILLS, Derrick (Mont) June 26, 1952 – December 12, 2020.
It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Mont Mills, a dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many, on the morning of Saturday December 12th, 2020 at his residence in Stephenville. He leaves to mourn with many special memories: his loving wife Linda of 46 years; daughters Derrica (Craig) MacIsaac and Alison; precious grandchildren Jacob and Logan MacIsaac.
Also leaving to mourn: sisters Pauline, Judy (Bill) Anstey, and Linda (Bill) Flowers; brothers Max (Donna) and Paul (Barb); special aunts and uncles Bern (Eva) Mills and Myrtle (Ambrose) Pardy, Ada; cherished in-laws, Andy (Debbie) Butt, Don (Kay) Gibbon, Bob (Gertie) Bruce, Tom (Mary) Sullivan, Nelson (Gina) White, John (Arlene) Butt, Sterling Stuckless, godson Michael Stuckless; as well as a large circle of loving nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by: his parents Mary and Cyril Mills; father and mother-in-law Andrew and Margaret Butt; sister in law, Carolyn Stuckless, Audrey Butt, nephew Bernie Butt and Aunt Ida Mullett.
Mont was born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland but found his true love Linda in Stephenville and together their union formed a strong bond of family and friends. He had a long rewarding career in retail for the 3 W’s (Woolworth, Woolco, Walmart) which took him across the island and as far as Edmonton, setting up stores and creating many new friendships. He retired as Manager of Walmart, Stephenville, but it was his family which gave him his greatest source of pride. His two girls and son-in-law brought him much joy, only to be enhanced with the arrival of Jacob and Logan. Even in declining health he spent many hours with his grandchildren, nurturing their experiences and guiding them to become the fine young people they are today.
Those who knew Mont remember him as the life of the party, the first to arrive and last to leave after he had danced with all the willing (or unwilling) ladies in waiting. He had an abundance of laughter, fun, and good times and enjoyed life to the fullest, whether that be enjoying a stiff drink, trying a new food, a scoff of fish, or a taste of fine chocolate to which he referred to as ‘moreish’. In many ways his early years may be seen as one of excess, but those who really knew Mont, quickly learned he had more to give in life than to take. With Linda as his supportive partner, he installed flooring to many of the homes in Stephenville using skills he had honed, often for the opportunity to just have a meal and laughter. His door was always open to those in need, and he and Linda provided room for many family and friends in transition, again with no expectations. He gave willingly of his knowledge from years of management, and his passion for physics and electronics. He also became adept at recycling wood and materials to repair home items as they deteriorated, describing his creations with glee. Gardening also captured his interests and his backyard was home to various fruit trees which he provided samples. He still left us wondering though, how it was that an apple tree he planted somehow produced pears – and very impressive ones at that!
Finally, his unwavering sense of loyalty to family and respect toward others in his life circle was recognized. Somehow, he possessed an uncanny combination of listening and affirming (with a splash of wit) to cheer up those in need, while still downplaying his own health or personal challenges. He touched many people in many ways. Keeping with Mont’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of life will be held at a future date in his memory. Online condolence and shared stories may be sent for the family to Russells Funeral Home (www.russellsfuneral.com).
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal: Love leaves a memory no one can steal.” (Albert Einstein)
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Derrick Mont Mills December 12 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Stephenville, Province: T-N
So sorry to hear of Mont’s passing. I know anything we say won’t be enough to get you through the time ahead. I hope you take solace that we were sorry we put off our trip to Stephenville.