Yasutomo "Tom" Mills

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Yasutomo "Tom" Mills, who left us on October 14, 2024, in Goodyear, Arizona. Born on February 10, 1963, in Misawa, Aomori, Japan, to Fred K. Mills III and Yuko U. Mills, Tom lived a life rich with adventure and love, shaped by his diverse upbringing and dedicated service.

Growing up in Japan, Plymouth, Michigan, and completing his high school education in Seoul, Korea, Tom’s journey led him to enlist in the United States Air Force in 1986. Serving as a Ground Radio Communications Specialist, he dedicated eight years to the military, during which he met his beloved wife, Mary Ann, while both attending training in Biloxi, MS. They married in June 1989 in Omaha, NE, and welcomed their daughter, Victoria, in Merced, CA, at Tom's final duty station. Tom also received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix.

After his honorable discharge in 1994, Tom and his family moved to various locations, including Virginia and Hawaii, before settling back in Arizona. He retired from the federal government in June 2020, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to service, both in the Air Force and as a valued employee with the TSA and VA.

Tom was a man of many passions. He was a devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Detroit Red Wings, Hiroshima Toyo Carp, and Yomiuri Giants. He cherished the Christmas season, loved summer beach days, and was known for his remarkable BBQ sauce. An avid motorcycle rider and member of the Green Knights Motorcycle Club, Classic Car Club, and Two Wheel Mafia, he embraced life with enthusiasm, always seeking new adventures.

He had a knack for making people laugh with his eccentric sense of humor and was known for his friendly, outgoing, and approachable nature. Tom’s genuine spirit and non-judgmental attitude drew people to him, and he will be remembered for his ability to listen, engage, and connect with others.

In addition to his love for family and friends, Tom enjoyed music, concerts, and traveling, having visited destinations around the globe during his military career. His proudest accomplishment was always his family, and he relished every moment spent with them.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Mary Ann; daughter Victoria Mills Ganeb and her husband Mark; sister Kimberly Mills; as well as his parents Fred and Yuko Mills. He also leaves behind his two dogs, Pepper and Penny, and granddog Yuki. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Burial will be at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 10:30am on October 29. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3pm, Sunday, December 15 at the Holiday Inn & Suites in Goodyear, Arizona.