William Maxson "Bill" Mills

Published in The Herald (Everett) from 2/15/2008 - 2/17/2008.

Feb. 16, 1932-Feb. 12, 2008

Bill passed away February 12, 2008, with his family by his side. Bill grew up in Seattle, WA, and attended B. F. Day Elementary, Hamilton Junior High School, and Lincoln High School where he played baseball and was named "All City Outfielder." He was recruited by the Chicago Cubs and played for one of their farm teams. Unfortunately, he was injured which ended his baseball career but not his love of baseball. This was followed by two years in the Navy.

Bill married Phyllis Purpur in 1957 and resided in Edmonds, WA. They had three children. They were married 27 years until Phyllis died in 1984. He worked for the Boeing Co. for 30 years as a purchasing agent. Later Bill met Sue Moser his loving friend and companion and they were married in 1993. They lived in Everett. Over the years they traveled extensively in the U.S. and abroad.

As an avid baseball fan, they enjoyed going to the Mariners games. Bill loved to help Sue in her class at Machias Elementary and was known by everyone as "Mr. Bill". He enjoyed being physically active at an Everett club. He was an energetic member of the Lions Club of Lake Stevens, working the flag program and collecting eyeglasses. He was named Lion of the Year in 2005. Everyone knew Bill with his "words of wisdom," rhymes, nicknames and dry sense of humor that brought a smile to everyone that heard them. His nickname for Sue was "Precious."

Bill is survived by his wife, Sue of 15 years; his daughters, Lori Dodge (Bob), and Deanna Fields (James); his blended children, Maria Anderson (Ryan), and Marc Moser; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and sister, Ruthanne Kern (Ted), of Arizona.

Bill joins those preceded in death by his children's mother, Phyllis Jean Mills; his son, Brook Michael Mills; and his parents, Ruth and William Mills Sr.

We all love you and you will be greatly missed.

At his request no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in honor of Bill to the Lions Club of Lake Stevens or your local food bank.

A gathering to celebrate Bill's life will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on February 23, 2008, at their home in Everett.