In memory of
Deborah Anne Mills
February 17, 1960 - July 23, 2026
It is with profound sadness that the family of Debbie Mills announces her passing July 23, 2026, in Mississauga, Ont., at the age of 66. She was the beloved wife of Robert (Bob) Lake, loving mother of Ash (Carol), James (Ali) and Emily, and adored grandma of Andie and Arie. Predeceased by parents Murray and Peggy (King) and sister Cathy, she was the much-loved sister of Mary Jane and Tom. Deb will also be missed by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A graduate of York Mills Collegiate and University of Waterloo, she worked in the civil service in the Independent Learning Centre of the Ministry of Education, then worked privately until early retirement.
Deb had a sharp mind and almost always had a book on the go. She took a keen interest in her community and kept well-informed on developments in the news and entertainment worlds. Often, she held strong, intelligent opinions, but was broad-minded and respected the views of others, except for those of certain politicians. She was a great fan of Toronto sports teams, particularly the Blue Jays.
Deb had a strong interest in genealogy, particularly her Scottish roots, and had done considerable research into her and Bob’s family histories. Always ready to help family, friends and relatives, she often put the needs of others ahead of her own, sacrificing her own comfort to make life easier for those she loved. She was a relentless planner and organizer who could put together a family feast that satisfied everybody’s tastes and dietary needs. She had a knack for remembering people’s interests, likes and dislikes and coming up with conversation, gifts and meals that reflected them.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at the Juravinski Cancer Centre in Hamilton, who went to great lengths to try to bring her long battle with cancer to a happier conclusion and who made her hospital stays as pleasant as they could. Thanks as well to the palliative care team at Trillium hospital for their compassion during Deb’s final days. Donations to the Juravinski Research Institute in Deb’s memory may be made at https://juravinskiresearchinstitute.ca/donate/
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Deb’s life will be held at Duff’s Church in Puslinch ON. Date to be determined.
A graduate of York Mills Collegiate and University of Waterloo, she worked in the civil service in the Independent Learning Centre of the Ministry of Education, then worked privately until early retirement.
Deb had a sharp mind and almost always had a book on the go. She took a keen interest in her community and kept well-informed on developments in the news and entertainment worlds. Often, she held strong, intelligent opinions, but was broad-minded and respected the views of others, except for those of certain politicians. She was a great fan of Toronto sports teams, particularly the Blue Jays.
Deb had a strong interest in genealogy, particularly her Scottish roots, and had done considerable research into her and Bob’s family histories. Always ready to help family, friends and relatives, she often put the needs of others ahead of her own, sacrificing her own comfort to make life easier for those she loved. She was a relentless planner and organizer who could put together a family feast that satisfied everybody’s tastes and dietary needs. She had a knack for remembering people’s interests, likes and dislikes and coming up with conversation, gifts and meals that reflected them.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at the Juravinski Cancer Centre in Hamilton, who went to great lengths to try to bring her long battle with cancer to a happier conclusion and who made her hospital stays as pleasant as they could. Thanks as well to the palliative care team at Trillium hospital for their compassion during Deb’s final days. Donations to the Juravinski Research Institute in Deb’s memory may be made at https://juravinskiresearchinstitute.ca/donate/
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Deb’s life will be held at Duff’s Church in Puslinch ON. Date to be determined.