Gary Howard Mills

Gary Howard Mills

Eugene, Oregon - Gary lost his battle with Multiple Sclerosis on Monday, April 5th. He was 81 years old. He is survived by his beloved wife Joyce of almost 59 years, daughter Wendy, daughter Cindy (Marc) and son Jon (Denise), his grandchildren Taylor, Daniel, Lexie, Jorden and Haley and great grandson Colson as well as his siblings Harold Jr., Steve and Judy and his mother Gracie along with several friends, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Harold E. Mills.
Gary was born in Kansis City and raised in St. Joseph Missouri. He left Missouri to join the United States Marine Corps after high school. He had many passions and hobbies: skydiving was at the top of that list. Many will remember that he taught skydiving in Medford, Oregon and he was the skydiving Santa Clause at the Eureka Mall during the holidays in the late 70's. He also enjoyed camping, dredging for gold on the Trinity river, rock climbing, kayaking and hiking. His love of the outdoors led him to open an outdoor store in Eureka, California where he raised his family and later retired to Vida, Oregon to live by the McKenzie river.
As his MS progressed, he enjoyed his outings with his family and friends and loved Bingo. The family would like to thank his Veterans care team as well as his Visiting Angels team that took great care of him over the years.
He will be greatly missed by all who loved him along with is sense of humor and his smile.
A small family service will be held at a later date. Condolences can be sent to: Joyce & family at 1574 Coburg Rd., #346 Eugene, Oregon 97401