Thomas Roland Mills

Thomas Roland Mills, 85, passed away December 29, 2020, at his residence in Thermopolis, Wyo. 

The youngest son of Anson and Doris (Francis) Mills, he was born at the family farm near Oral, S. D., on October 30, 1935, joining one older brother and two sisters. 

While still in his teens, Tom displayed a sense of independence, enlisting in the Army in 1953 and serving for two years with the 502nd Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion at Fairbanks, Alaska. After his military separation, Tom returned to S. D., in 1956 and spent his life working as a heavy equipment operator and, in general, construction throughout west central Wyoming. He was a resident of Thermopolis, Wyo., for the last 30 plus years of his life.

Tom was a lifelong learner whose hobbies included music, photography, computers, and genealogy research.  A skilled craftsman, he enjoyed making and repairing stringed instruments, especially violins.

He is survived by nephew, Dave Maude of Black Hawk, S.D .; niece, Rebecca Martini of Lawrenceville, Ga .; one great niece; and two great nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Denton; older brother, Robert; and sisters, Bettina Mills and Irma (Mills) Maude. 

Inurnment was in the family plot at Fairview Cemetery, Oral, S.D.

Mortimore Funeral is assisting the family with arrangements.  Messages may be offered at www.mortfh.com.