The Minnesota State Handball Association

David Mills - Handball loses a friend

David R. Mills, 61, owner of the Mills Advertising Agency, died of a heart attack during a handball game at the Minneapolis Athletic Club.

Born in Minneapolis, he graduated from Southwest High School in 1952, and was chosen an all-conference player for football his senior year. He continued playing football at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN, and later at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism in 1956.

Mills advertising career included working for J Patrick Moore & Partners, Naegele Outdoor Advertising, and Chuck Ruhr Advertising before opening his own company in 1989.

He was devoted to his work, but he was just as devoted to his family.

Mills continued his devotion to sports, as well, winning the state handball championship in 1975 and 1976 and coaching for 20 years with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

Mills is survived by his wife of 34 years, Karin; sons Mike and and Andrew, both of Minneapolis; daughters Amy and Sarah Mills, both of Minneapolis; and a sister, Mary Mills, of Minneapolis.