Archie Mills

Archie was born in Shoal Harbor, Trinity Bay, Newfoundland. At 15 years old he graduated from the local one-room school. After winning the Imperial Oil Scholarship for the highest marks in all of Newfoundland, he went on to study Engineering at both Memorial University and The Technical University of Nova Scotia. Upon graduation, Archie worked for Bailey’s Instruments in Ohio and Montreal before returning to Newfoundland to work for Bowater Pulp and Paper.

Archie’s career in the pulp and paper industry spanned multiple decades, with leadership positions at both Bowaters in Corner Brook and Abitibi Price in Stephenville. He served on the Board of the National Industry Society for several years and traveled across the US and Europe to visit suppliers and customers. Even in his final years, he was called “The Engineer” by the nursing home staff.

Archie was very involved in his community. He was an active member of the Kinsmen and served on the Board of Directors of the provincial community college. Archie loved sports and had a significant impact in this area. He organized many teams and tournaments in his youth and was the founding member of the Corner Brook Ski Club. He and his friends would spend their weekends on Marble Mountain, climbing with their skis and then skiing back down through the trees, long before the current resort was established.

However, the most important role in Archie’s life was as a husband and father. He loved spending time with his wife Jean, his daughters and their families, particularly at his treasured cabin (Mills’ Mecca) at George’s Lake, which he built himself.

Archie is survived by his sister, Rowena McNeil of St. John’s; his three daughters, Cindy (Dan) New Jersey; Jennifer (Les) and Joanne (Steve) both of Halifax, NS; and his six grandchildren: Sarah, Ian, Allison, Erin, Simon and Clara. He is predeceased by his cherished wife Jean, and brothers Merlin and Corwin.

For those wishing to honor Archie, please donate to a youth sports organization or charity of your choice.