Dale Mills passed away Sept. 22, 2006, at the young age of 48 after a long, courageous and determined battle with cancer. He was born in Marin County and spent most of his childhood in Rohnert Park where he graduated from Rancho Cotati High School. After graduation Dale went into the US Military to begin his career in the Army.
In 1999, after two tours of duty in Desert Storm and a 22-year career in the military, Dale moved to Lake County to begin his career as a Corrections Officer. Even though he was forced to take a leave of absence from the department due to health issues, his heart still remained there.
Dale had a great sense of humor and was always pulling pranks. He loved laughter, walks with his dog, going to the movies, Disneyland, traveling and life, and he thrived on family. He never complained or dwelled in self-pity, even after losing his arm to cancer. His spirit, courage, strength and optimism amazed many people and his smiling face will be missed by so many. Dale was an amazing person who left an impact on many people”s lives and will be remembered for years to come.
Dale is survived by his wife and soul mate, Janice Mills; his children, Melissa Carpenter and Daniel Mills; stepchildren, Nicole Sestito and Brian McMurray; his father, Charles Mills; brothers, Harry and David Mills; sister, Nancy Lafountain; granddaughter, Kaylie Sestito; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Bernice Mills.
Family prefers donations to The American Cancer Society at NCICFUL, P.O.Box 102454, Atlanta, GA 30368-2454.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 1625 High St., Lakeport, with a visitation on Wednesday, Sept. 27, from 4-8 p.m.
For further information call Chapel of the Lakes at 263-0357 or 994-5611 or www.chapelofthelakes.com.
Please sign the guestbook at www.record-bee.com, click on obituaries.
(Published in the Lake County Record-Bee on Tuesday, September 26, 2006.)
