MILLS, Stephen John
November 20, 1942– January 7, 2012
Stephen, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 7, 2012 after a valiant battle with Parkinson’s.
Stephen was an amazing man. He was a geologist, adventurer, historian, philanthropist and author. He lived and worked in many countries throughout his life time and career; Ecuador, Australia, England, Indonesia, Scotland and Calgary. He worked with Burmah Oil, Canadian Oxy, Lasmo, BP and others. Stephen authored books on Canada’s involvement in the First World War, visited battle sites and was a resource for other historians and authors.
He leaves behind countless friends, comrades, cousins, and two special ‘grandchildren’, Ashianna and Qwinton. He will be missed!
There is no formal service planned at this time. A celebration of Stephen’s life will take place in the spring in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Parkinson’s Society of Southern Alberta, #102, 5636 Burbank Crescent S.E., Calgary, AB T2H 1Z6 or to PBS (KSPS TV) 3911 South Regal Street Spokane, WA 99223.
In living memory of Stephen Mills, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403)243-8200
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I first met Steve in 1971 and worked with him in Perth, Aust, London,Eng, and Calgary in oil and gas exploration. I shared a house with him in Fulham-Broadway in London in the mid 70′s for a year. Steve was a man of integrity, well-read, hardworking and an excellent geologist. He was a gentleman, a loner, adventurer and very much enjoyed the company of his colleagues and friends along with a glass of beer, wine or a fine scotch. David Adie, his guardian and friend is to be commended for his commitment to Steve in his failing years with Parkinson’s disease. Steve will be long remembered.
I am extremely saddened to learn of Stephen’s passing.
Stephen was my landlord for 8 years, I rented an apartment he owned in the Belsize Park area of London. Whenever he visited London I would always have a drink with him and I would hear different excerpts from his life. I would also help with any bits of shopping he needed. Stephen was very friendly, easy going and interesting. He also was very generous. He never increased my rent in all the time I was there. He could have increased it quite significantly, in line with the area, but he chose not to. I had many good years in that apartment, thanks to Stephen and I will always remember the kindness he showed.
Very saddened by the news, RIP.