Mildred Meidi Jean Mills passed away at her home on August 17th, 2017, following a lengthy illness. “Millie” was born on July 16th, 1937 in Grand Marais, MI, the third child to William and Ruth (Saari) Aho. Millie grew up in Grand Marais and on the family farm south of Trenary with her ten siblings. She was a 1957 graduate of Trenary High School. Millie married John Robert “Bob” Mills on July 31st, 1970, and they made their home in Escanaba, MI. Bob preceded her in death on April 7th, 2004. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, brother Carl, and sister-in-law Pamela.
As the oldest daughter in the family Millie provided great help for her mother while growing up and aided in the raising of her younger siblings. She was conscientious and developed a strong work ethic through her parents and family.
“Millie the Meter Maid” was a local celebrity, well known for her tenacity in making sure parking was kept orderly in downtown Escanaba, and wrote parking tickets when they were warranted. Tickets were issued to her brothers, her husband, the Mayor of Escanaba, and once (so the legend goes) to the State Governor. She worked for the City from 1965 until her retirement in 1994.
Millie liked to visit with her friends at Rosie’s Diner, enjoyed the Swedish Pantry and Chinese Buffet, and liked visiting Ludington Park near her home. A dog lover, she received comfort and companionship from her pets, especially from her dogs “Snoopy” and “Trouble” for many years. Millie liked to crochet, loved cooking and excelled at bowling.
She is survived by brothers Arnold (Phyllis), Edward, Roy (Jane), Leo (Betty), Alvin, Kim, and Gary Aho, and by sisters Jennie Aho and Darlene Stone, and stepsons Robert and James Mills. Millie is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Scott Aho, with whom she had a special bond, and his son Kyler who she babysat as he grew up.
The family will receive friends at Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone on Sunday, September 3rd from 1 to 4 pm, followed by a memorial service. Luncheon will follow the service at the Ludington Park Pavilion in Escanaba.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Lung Association.
Brad Larson - West Bend, MI
I worked for the City of Escanaba for the last 11 years of Millie’s “metermaid” career. She was always a friend with a great smile and a positive attitude. I remember when the City decided to pull the meters; everyone wonderewd what would happen to Millie? Turned out, she was just as tenacious as she ever was, writing tickets for other parking violations and often calling for tow trucks for the more severe illegal parkers. I pray she enjoys her new life, walking the streets of gold, looking for offenders!
Karen Ombrello - The Villages, FL
Thoughts, prayers & sympathy to all of Millie’s family. The Aho family was a big part of those Trenary memories growing up. You have many good memories to comfort you. God bless you as you share your grief & love.
Karen Hager Ombrello
Nancy Bull - Alpine, WY
My heartfelt sympathy to all of Millie’s family. She was a treasure to the parking department in Escanaba and i recall her being happy to look for those parking offenders but sorry to have to write them a ticket. My heart goes out to all who will experience a loss with her passing.