On February 10, 2011, Ancil "Al" Leon Mills 79, of East Mapleton, passed away peacefully in the Palliative Care Unit of All Saints Hospital, Springhill. Born in East Mapleton, Ancil was the son of the Late Valdmar and Ethel (Beaton) Mills-Oulton (James).



He is survived by his wife Norma (Risteen); daughters, Wanda (David) Theriault, Carla (Jeff) Perrin, grandsons, Chris and Brad Theriault, Steve and Alex Perrin; great granddaughter, Madisyn Perrin; sister, Norma Crawford.



He was predeceased by his only son, Dale Mills.



Ancil left home at an early age to try his hand at various jobs, including lumber camps, truck driving and Ontario Hydro before joining the RCAF in the early 1950's. His 20 years as an Air Force mechanic included a one year mission with the United Nations in Egypt and various postings throughout Canada. Al retired from the Forces in 1971 to return to the family farm where he ran a successful maple syrup and blueberry operation for many years. Ancil was a member of various farming, modern square dance associations and the Knight of Pythias. He and his wife, Norma taught square dancing for over 20 years and were instrumental in the formation of the Cumberland Twirlers and Mountain Top Teens square dance groups. In their spare time, Ancil and Norma loved their wood working crafts, attending local flea markets and most recently the Five Islands Bazaar. He also loved recreational bowling and golf. Ancil's biggest enjoyment was spending time with his children, grandchildren, family and friends.





Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to A. H. Brown Funeral Home, 5 McFarlane Street, Springhill, (902 597 2361). To celebrate Ancil's life, visitation was held Saturday, February 12, 2011from 2 - 4 pm at the Funeral Home. Funeral Service held 2:00 pm, Sunday, February 13, 2011, from the Funeral Home with The Reverend Marion Lloy officiating. Reception following the service. Burial in Mapleton Cemetery, Cumb. Co., at a later date.



If so desired, donations in Ancil's memory may be made to the Mapleton United Church or CRHCC Foundation.



www.brownsfuneralhome.com