Chad Eric Mills

Chad Eric Mills, 49, passed away January 25, 2025, at his home in Ashley, IN. He was born April 17, 1975, in Fort Wayne, IN, the son of the late Arthur Andrew Mills and Paula G. Sprunger, who survives.

He earned his associate degree in computer programming from Ivy Tech. Chad was the computer programmer for Holmes & Company Sawmill in Columbia City for 25 years. The Sawmill was Chad's home away from home.

In 2022 Chad moved to Ashley IN. neighboring his mother. Chad and his mother became sidekicks, spending day after day together. They became dependent on taking care of each other. Caring for each other was their daily routine and Chad's happiness everyday till the very last.

Chad ended his career working for his cousin Nick at SNS Property Management creating digital marketing ads, something he enjoyed and was proud to show off. Chad and Nick were very close. Chad loved the bond that grew between himself and his cousin, Nick. He enjoyed going to watch Nick’s kids play soccer. Something he never wanted to be late for or miss.

Chad listened to all types of music but country music and old school hip hop and R&B were his favorite. When Chad was a teenager he was a professional hip hop dancer. He was in a group called JC Posse which danced and opened the stage for LL Cool J. Chad was known for his break dancing and busting out one of his moves.

Chad was a strong man. He always found his way no matter the circumstances.

Chad loved his grandkids being the proud grandpa of six grandsons and a granddaughter. Chads face would light up when he shared stories of his grandkids.

Chad had a special bond with his nephew, Jaidyn who was named after Chad. They even shared the same birthday. Chad made sure Jaidyn knew he was loved and cared for. Chad would pick up Jaidyn to spend weekends at Uncle Chad's house creating memories and bonding together.

Everyone enjoyed Chad's company. He made sure to fill the room with laughter.

In Chad’s words “It is what it is”

Chad is survived by his children, Auston Mills and Kristina Mills; mother, Paula G. Sprunger; sisters, Kassondra Lopez (Fort Wayne), Dawn Mills (Auburn) and Missy Mills (Kentucky); brother, Joshua Holt (Fort Wayne); seven grandchildren; eight nieces; and seven nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Andrew Mills; Grandpa and Grandma Delbert; and Vaughnette Koenemann.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 am Monday, February 3, 2025, at D.O. McComb and Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Ave. Fort Wayne, IN, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Sunday February 2, 2025, at the funeral home. Committal and Burial at Lindenwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the family, for the grandchildren’s education fund, in care of Autson Mills. To sign the online guestbook go to www.mccombandsons.com