Mike Mills

**Ellsworth Luther Mills II "Mike"**

Age 98, World War II Navy Veteran

A lifelong resident of Highland Park, Illinois, Ellsworth Luther Mills II, affectionately known as "Mike," passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024, in Libertyville, Illinois. Born on May 12, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, Mike was the son of Ellsworth Luther Mills I and Mary Louise Roberts. The Mills family has deep roots in Highland Park, where Mike's grandparents settled in 1904.

Mike's education began at Elm Place School in Highland Park, and in 1940, he transitioned to Northwestern Military & Naval Academy in Lake Geneva. His passion for football led him to Highland Park High School, where he played on an undefeated team, graduating on D-Day, June 4, 1944. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the Navy on July 1, 1944, aspiring to become a Navy pilot alongside 109 other men. He pursued studies in Naval History at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri, and was stationed at the Auxiliary Air Field in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Following the war, Mike attended St. Mary Pre-Flight School in Oakland, California, and later earned a degree in engineering from Northwestern University, graduating in 1948. He married Betty Masters from Oak Park, Illinois, and together they built a family, beginning Mike's career with International Harvester in Memphis, Tennessee, where he specialized in hay balers and cotton pickers. He subsequently worked in high-pressure gas control equipment and spent 15 years at Lava Crucible Company, Pittsburgh, PA, focusing on high-temperature brick manufacturing.

Mike was devoted to his community and church, serving as Senior Warden at Trinity Episcopal Church in Highland Park for 12 years. He was an active member of American Legion Post 145 and played a crucial role in establishing the veterans memorial at Central and St. Johns Avenue, honoring Highland Park residents who lost their lives in war. A dedicated Republican, he served as Precinct Committeeman from 1952 to 2016 and was an Executive Commissioner of the Republican Lake County Central Committee.

His interests extended to recreational activities; he was a long-time member of the Highwood Bocce Ball Club and the North Shore Senior Center, where he enjoyed playing bridge. Additionally, Mike was a proud member of the Chicago Curling Club, serving as captain for the team that won a national tournament in 1970.

Mike was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Masters Mills, who passed away on October 23, 2008. He is survived by his loving children: Ellsworth "Chip" Mills III (Peggy), the late Karen C.M. (John) Hensley, Martha R. Mills, and Juliana K. Mills (Robert Huff), as well as his cherished grandchildren: Ellsworth "Luke" IV, William, and Camille Hensley.  Seven great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 10 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM at St. James the Less Episcopal Church, 550 Sunset Ridge Road, Northfield, Illinois, officiated by Megan Miller, Rector. Interment with military honors will follow at Vernon Cemetery, 15215 Cemetery Road, Lincolnshire, Illinois.

Mike's life was marked by commitment, adventure, and a profound dedication to his family, community, and country. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

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