February 23, 1955 – August 31, 2024
Peter Mills, aged “old enough to know better but young enough to still think he’s right,” passed away peacefully, though probably not quietly, on a crisp Sunday in Chandler, Arizona. While we can’t confirm the exact cause, some suspect it was the Maple Leafs’ performance, or perhaps he just got tired of reminding us they *will* win the Stanley Cup again someday since it has been 57 years since their last championship win.
Peter, the son of Robert and Audrey Mills, was born and raised with maple syrup in his veins, Peter was a true Canadian through and through. His love for all things north of the border—hockey, Tim Hortons, and apologizing for no reason—defined him. You’d often find him correcting others on proper poutine etiquette or humming the national anthem in the shower. He knew more trivia about Canada than any citizen probably should.
Peter adored his wife, Melinda Mills, the one woman who not only tolerated his endless hockey commentary but also learned to share in his love for classical music. His love for her was unmeasurable. Their home was filled with the sounds of Beethoven, Brahms, and the occasional outburst from Peter about a missed power play. Their dog, Sophie, their steadfast companion, is now stuck wondering why there’s suddenly so much classical music and so few hockey rants. Peter also loved his Buffalo Bills and snared Melinda’s Miami Dolphins. They were truly a house divided only when it came to sports.
And then there were the lions. Yes, you read that right. Peter had a fascination with lions— his favorite member of the animal kingdom. Both Peter and Melinda loved lions so much they became known as the Lion and Lioness. The Disney movie, “The Lion King” became the couple’s family theme.
Peter learned what it meant to Melinda to become fully Catholic. He was confirmed and married in the Catholic faith in December 2020. Peter remained at Melinda’s side through their marriage through sickness and never stopped loving his one true love, HIS NESS.
One of his proudest accomplishments is when he became a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus. Peter enjoyed his service with the Knights, especially serving at the pancake breakfast. His wry sense of humor was much appreciated.
In his later years, Peter grew fond of philosophical questions like, “Is there a hockey team in heaven?” or “Do lions have souls?” If there is a cosmic arena beyond, we can only assume Peter is up there now, coaching the Toronto Maple Leafs to their 14th heavenly Stanley Cup win, while simultaneously giving Beethoven some tips on how to improve his Ninth Symphony.
Peter is survived by his lovely wife of 15 years, Melinda Mills, his mother Audrey Mills, his sister Pamela McAmmond and his nephew Jason McAmmond and his loyal dog Sophie. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Mills.
The spirit of every Canadian hockey fan who’s ever said, “Next year is our year!” To those left behind, remember Peter fondly and perhaps raise a glass of maple syrup in his honor. Or, better yet, enjoy a Maple Leafs playoff game. You never know; this might be the year. He would’ve wanted it that way.
As Peter would often say when departing a room: “I’m not gone, I’m just getting a snack. Be right back.” Only this time, he won’t.
The family would like to thank Fr Scott Harris, his care givers and hospice team, Knights Council 9482 and Assembly 3591, Abel Funeral home, Queen of heaven Cemetery, and Katy Lorentz.
Thank You,
The Mills Family
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