Obituary of Donald R. Mills

Donald R. Mills, 84, of Downsville passed away on Saturday, October 15, 2022 in Downsville as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Don was born on March 31, 1938 in Walton, the son of the late Reginald and Isabelle (Knapp) Mills. Don was a Blaster in the Construction Union in Nyack, New York. He loved spending time with his family, as he was as the one who started the infamous “Mills Salute”. He was quiet, and a man of few words but when he did speak, they were worth listening to. Don enjoyed hunting and fishing, cutting wood, and 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; 4 sisters, Roxanne Bartolillo (Mike), Terry Allen; Mickey (Pat) McClenon; and Tracey Wilson, all of Downsville; stepchildren, Shirlee Winder of Oneida, NY; and Sandra Hill of Manchester, NY, and 3 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 step daughter, Sharlene Winder-Smith of Ellenville, NY;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 on Saturday, October 29, 2022 at 11 AM 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, New York 13753.