Date of death: 4/18/2024
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1963
Joseph Leary Mills, 87, of Lombard, formerly of Plainfield and Galesburg, IL, entered his heavenly home on April 18th.
Joe was born to parents Joseph P. and Florence Mills, née Leary. He grew up in Galesburg and attended Corpus Christi High School where he was named Most Valuable Player of the senior team, making a game-winning long shot against rival Galesburg High School and advancing to the state playoffs. Later, Joe met Patricia Petsel, a registered nurse, on a blind date at a hockey game. They were married on December 26th, 1964, and had 59 beautiful years of marriage together.
Joe is the loving father of Sean Joseph (Stefan Weisman) Mills, Brian (Darci) Mills, Julie (Jim) Prather, and Becca (Chris) Esposito. A dear grandfather to Caleigh Esposito, Paige Prather, Nicholas Esposito, Andrew Prather, Lucas Mills, Audrey Mills, and Grant Joseph Prather. And a loving brother to Steve Mills.
Joe is predeceased by his daughter Laurie Anne Mills; parents Joseph P. Mills and Florence Leary; and sisters Patricia McKillip, Mary Mills, Bonita Laule, and Kathleen Hickey.
Joe was a proud veteran, serving as a medic in the United States Army, and in the Army Reserves. He was a dedicated teacher and guidance counselor for thirty-seven years.
In his spare time, Joe enjoyed running, reading, and cheering for the Chicago Cubs, and was elated that his team finally won the World Series during his lifetime. Also, he was a devoted fan of the Fighting Irish, especially while his son attended Notre Dame.
As well as being a loving husband and father, he was best known as “Papa” to his seven adoring grandchildren and was their biggest fan for all of their sports, concerts, and activities.