Obituary of Nelson Francis Mills

It is with difficult sadness that the family of Nelson Francis Lee Mills, Fort McMurray, announce his peaceful passing in the arms of his children at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre on November 5, 2024 at the age of 69.

Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Nelson grew up in Haneytown and attended school in Geary. He was an avid woodsman, hunter, fisherman, and trapper. He often said he was happiest in the woods and was known to be able to get up close to wild animals that others might run from. He built a log cabin in the woods with his father at a young age, and it became a peaceful escape often for both. He was a hard worker, and he did everything he could to help his parents, even after he moved away. He was also a talented photographer and was very interested in family history. Nelson loved music, dancing and karaoke and he enjoyed long philosophical talks with family and friends.

Nelson moved to Fort McMurray in the late 70’s. He would soon start a family with Kathy Schrieber, and then have two beautiful kids, Jason and Victoria. Later on, his grandkids came into the world, Carter, Ava, Sawyer, and Quinn. He was very proud of his children, his grandchildren, and spoke about them often. Our dad “beat to the sound of his own drum” he would often say. Our dad was kind, soft spoken ,and generous. He always wanted to help others, especially with anything mechanical. He loved to tinker.

He spent many years living in a garage or under the hood of a car. He worked for the city for most of his career and moved on to Diversified, and then to Keyano college . He was honored to have been offered a position to teach at Keyano College, and we were so proud of him! I will always remember our dad for his hard work and devotion to his love of mechanics. His love of good food and music. His love of being a helping hand to anyone in need. His love of dance that we would share every chance we could when we would get together. His love of life! He never wanted to grow up or look old. Forever young!

Our dad loved to write just like his sister and father before him. He would always say “yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery”. He had that positive outlook on life and there wasn’t much that got him down. The past couple years have been hard on him, physically and mentally. He spent his last days singing karaoke, playing pool, watching the bands at the casino and just  doing what he loved. I’m so thankful that I was able to see him before he passed. Hold his hand, give him a hug and play him our favorite songs. We love you so much dad and I can’t believe you're really gone forever. Please watch over our families. Fly high and until we meet again.

Nelson is survived and missed by his daughter Victoria Mills Brickner (Joe), Leduc AB and son, Jason Mills ( Shelly ), Fort McMurray as well as his grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Eva Allen (Steve) and Shirley Trites, Moncton NB, and brothers Allison Mills, Carman Mills (Marylynn), Robin Mills (Nancy) and Steven Mills (Shannon), Rusagonis/Fredericton NB and by several nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. He is sadly missed by his niece Heather Nash, Hanwell NB. Nelson was predeceased by his parents, Lee and Isabel Mills and a grandniece, Aleshia Claus.

A private graveside service will be held for friends and family in New Brunswick at a later date.