Dean Mills Obituary

Dean Mills, age 56, of Seville, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025, at his home, following a sudden illness.

Dean was born on February 28, 1969, in Wadsworth, to the late Gerald Lee and Kay Francis (Rutherford) Mills. He graduated from Cloverleaf High School in 1987 and earned an Associate Degree in Business from the University of Akron. He married Salina Chaw on March 14, 2020 and was an Owner and Operator of Aldridge Folders in Wadsworth for 40 years.

Surrounded by love until the end, Dean is survived by his devoted wife, Salina; his cherished children, Tyler (Taryn) Mills of North Lawrence, Travis (Jessica) Mills of Rittman, Trenton (Paige) Mills of Chippewa Lake, Tristan (Ashley) Mills of Creston and Makayla Mills of the home; 10 grandchildren, Troy, Treyson, Truett, Carson, Carter, Graham, Ellery, Bailey, Lainie and Mason; brother, Brian (Chris) Mills of Seville; two sisters Janet (Brian) Kennedy of Marshallville, Terri (Craig) Nettleton of North Canton; and a wide circle of extended family and lifelong friends.

Though his absence leaves a deep ache, his spirit lives on in every joke retold, every story shared, and every quiet morning spent outdoors.

Dean was a masterful storyteller whose quick wit brightened any room. Whether among lifelong friends or new acquaintances, his timeless humor kept everyone smiling-even strangers.

He adored his family: his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren-his captive audience for countless "Dad Jokes." Yet Dean's warmth extended far beyond blood; he welcomed friends and loved ones through that famous open door, always greeting them with a clever one-liner and a willing hand.

A devoted hunter, he found peace tracking game at dawn. He loved the freedom of cruising on his Harley & fishing Lake Erie. You could always find him cheering from the sidelines at his kids' and grandkids' sporting events, grilling up feasts, and hosting weekends rich with friends and family.

His home truly was the heart of joy-a place to escape life's stresses. Guests remember potlucks, lively parties, corn hole tournaments, and countless evenings of simple, perfect togetherness.

If Dean could speak from beyond, he'd joke: "Buy ammo, not bouquets." In his memory, the family suggests donations to your favorite outdoor charity-or better yet, share his legacy by teaching a child to hunt or fish.

The family invites all who knew and loved Dean to join them for a celebration of his life. Details will be shared at a later date.