Doris Mills

Mills, Doris
Hunter Vanderbeek
Age 93
Doris passed away peacefully on February 23 and is in the loving arms of her Heavenly Father. Preceded in death by parents, Walter and Amanda Tobolt; beloved husband, Lester Knutson; siblings, Vern, Cliff, Lyle, and Frances. Survived by children, Rosalie Kluegel (Richard Holmes) of St. Paul, Sandra Vangen of White Bear Township, and Leslie (Beth) Hunter of Tucson, Arizona; grandchildren, Dawn, Dana, Bradley, Shaun, Drew, Amy, Amanda, Tira, and Lars; and by 15 great-grandchildren, five great-great grandsons and many nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends. Born in Ashby, MN, Doris was widowed at age 25 while raising 3 children, ages five, three, and six weeks. She moved to St. Paul and began a 40 year career as a beautician in Highland Park, and eventually as manager for Glenby International Inc. She earned her GED at age 65 and nursing assistant certification. She moved to Tuscon, Arizona for 11 years then returned to St. Paul in 2000. She worked her entire life to help her children. Doris was well known for her cooking and baking skills. She was a passionate reader; a passion that was handed down to her children. She loved to dance, travel, and play cards with family and friends. She was also the Queen Mother for the Red Hat Ladies for five years. Possessing a lively wit, Doris loved lively conversation and meeting new people. She was independent and adventuresome. Doris was a 13 year resident at Seabury Independent Living on the St Paul Episcopal Homes Campus. In January 2013 she moved to the Episcopal Homes long term care facility. A special thanks to everyone at Sister Annette House and the caregivers from Our Lady of Peace Hospice. Doris received outstanding care and attention from her children, and granddaughter, Amy Rolfzen. Doris will be missed by all who knew her; including the two small family dogs, Poppy and Lily.