Obituary of Edward W. Mills

Meridale, NY Edward W. "Eddie" "Pop-Pop" Mills, 85, of Meridale, passed away at his home on Sunday evening, June 29, 2014 following a short illness. Born on August 2, 1928 in Oneonta, He is the son of the late Leo and Mary Mills. Mr. Mills proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1948-1952. Part of that time he was stationed in Newfoundland. Eddie was honorably discharged obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his service he was employed as a teletype operator for Western Union. Eddie then went to work as a Journeyman printer for the Oneonta Daily Star and he also worked at SUNY Delhi as a bus driver until his retirement. He was married to Betty Rivenburg Mills on August 31, 1958, the couple enjoyed 33 years together until her passing on March 10, 1992. He is survived by his son: Wesley (Donna) Mills, Sr. of West Davenport; a daughter: Darleen (John) Crandell of Meridale; four grandchildren: Wesley Mills, Jr., Bob (Heidi) Mills, Katherin (Justin Richie) Crandell and Joshua Crandell; great-grandchildren: Korbin, Keira and one year old, Kaius; a sister: Joan (Buddy) Steiner of Lake George; and several nieces, nephews and cousins whom he loved and tried to keep in contact with. Eddie was an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and especially canoeing. He loved sports, especially baseball, and as a youth he was bat boy for a semiprofessional team visiting Oneonta. Later, as a young man, he tried out for a Minor League team. He played Sunday softball in Oneonta for many years. He enjoyed taking trips with family to Damaschke Field to watch the games. Eddie was also a bowler, bowling in leagues in Oneonta and Milford. Eddie was a respected member of the canoeing community. In 2004, he became a member of the 700 mile club in the General Clinton canoe regatta. Eddie also loved to dance, which he was able to do right up until a few months ago. Friends will remember that Eddie didn't walk where he needed to go, he jogged. People may remember his sign "Educated Nite Walkers" at his home in West Davenport, where he used to sell nightwalkers to fishermen. Eddie was very social and had many friends. He loved people, and frequently asked "Can I help you in any way". Eddie was known for having a keen sense of humor, as well. Friends and relatives are invited to call on the family from 5-8 PM on Sunday, July 6 at the Hall & Peet Funeral Home, 134 Main Street, Delhi. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 7 at 10AM. Rev. Mel Farmer, pastor of the River Street Baptist Church, where Eddie attended, will be officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Meridale. Memorial contributions may be made to the River Street Baptist Church, 133 River Street, Oneonta, NY 13820 or to the Meridale Fire Department, 50 County Highway 10, Meridale, NY 13806 Please visit the Eddie's online memorial at www.hallandpeet.com and share a condolence or special story with his family.