Dansville: May 8, 2015 at age 68 years peacefully at the Vincent House surrounded by his family. Predeceased by his parents Bill & Catherine Mills and his first wife Margaret O’Leary. Survived by his wife of 15 years June (Johnston) Mills and step-daughter Mary Ann Johnston of Conesus. Siblings; Mary Derleth of Rochester, Virginia (Carl) Hudon, and Margaret (Edwin) Ranous all of Mesa, AZ. Sister-in-law Valva (Bob) Bradshaw of Nunda, brother-in-law Marty (Sharon) Johnston of Conesus, and sister-in-law Collette McTarnaghan of Geneseo. Special nephew Todd Ranous, many other nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews, and several life-long beloved friends, including Bruce Coleman & Steve Ford of Rochester and George Jenson of Dansville.
Bill was born on February 4, 1947 in Rochester, NY to parents William & Catherine (Ruffner) Mills. He worked for the United States Postal Service for over 30 years. He retired the Postmaster of Groveland Station Post Office. Throughout his life he retained many childhood friends. A special thanks to all those that enriched his life. The family wishes to thank all the staff and volunteers that helped Bill at the Wilmot Cancer Center and the Vincent House in Wayland.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 15th, at 11am at Lakeview Cemetery, Groveland, NY. Immediately following the service all are welcome to a celebration of life gathering at the Dansville VFW, 145 Main Street, Dansville. Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to the Vincent House, PO Box 566, Wayland, NY 14572 or the Wilmot Cancer Center, PO Box 704, Rochester, NY 14642. To send a condolence and for further information please visit:
www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Bill was a neighborhood friend and classmate. We often walked to school on some days “together” and on most other days we were several steps apart. Bill never asked why I was always in a hurry to get to school. It was the classic case of the hare and the tortoise.
One morning, on the way to school, Bill told a joke but I didn’t hear all of the punchline because I was too far ahead, so I asked him to repeat it and he said: “Never mind Andy I will tell you when you hurry back after school which will be in about 15 minutes”. I didn’t need to hear the punchline because that comment cracked me up. Bill’s wise humor helped me to pay attention in school. He was a gentleman for certain and a dear friend. Bill will be welcome in heaven.
What happy memories I have of “Uncle Bill’s ” visits to Peg and Bud’s home. We all delighted at his gently teasing of his mom and his siblings (remember his painting on velvet gifts?). Thinking of him brings smile. May The Lord smile on him and give his loving family and friends peace in their hearts and joy from being a part of his life.
With deepest sympathy ,
Patti Bonacci
Bill was definitely one of a kind. He was a gentle soul and had a great sense of humor. He was always above all else a gentlemen. No matter what was going on at the post office, a call from him would brighten up the day. Bill you will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace my friend.
Heart and Humor and an intelligence underestimated by many , just the way Bill wanted it .You are missed .
Condolences to June and family .Rest In Peace old friend .
Jim & Iris Bertolone
Aunt June, we are so sory for your loss. We love you.
June- Uncle Bill was truly a good man. We cherish all the great memories we have of him. He is and will always be missed.
Uncle Bill was truly a great man. He always made me feel important when I was with him. Uncle Bill could be serious and supportive. He could also slip a joke in under the wire that would make you think- what just happened here? Did he actually say that with a straight face?!? My heart is heavy with the loss of my Uncle Bill, but is also joyous because of all the great memories I will keep of him. I love you Uncle Bill!
BILL WAS SUCH A GRACIOUS MAN, WE WILL TRULY MISS HIM
AND HIS WONDERFUL DRY HUMOR.
Bill is such a loss to his family and myriad number of friends. We miss him and hope he finds peace and happiness.
June – Jimmy and I were so sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. Bill was an awesome guy. We so enjoyed chatting with him at the Post Office. Please accept our deepest sympathies – our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bill was a gentlemen among gentlemens.