John "Johnny V" Mills
1953 - 2013
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Michael posted a condolence
Thursday, June 18, 2020
Your music is being discovered and appreciated by people all over the world to this very day and will undoubtably continue to be. Thank you.
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The family of John Mills uploaded a photo
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
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Jon Lawrence-Tayler posted a condolence
Saturday, April 13, 2013
I can't possibly offer enough condolences to Debbie and James for Johnny's untimely passing.
I met Johnny for the first time at Holger Petersens induction at the Blues Musuem in Windsor, courtesy of a CBC competition where we got to go backstage before the concert. We hit it off instantly, Johnny having decided that we were both imports - myself from the UK and he from points west. My friend and I took a bunch of concert photos and he was very happy when I got the dvd of them to him the following week. Since then we stayed in contact by phone, and I even roadied for him once (not realising at the time that letting someone else touch his recording gear was such a big deal). What can I say about the man that has not already been said? He was a raconteur, chef, producer, teacher, mentor, father, comedian, husband and above all a bluesman in the truest sense of that word. He was also a man truly at peace with himself who loved music with a passion that was breathtaking. We never got to play together, but he extracted a promise from me not long before he passed that I would "get back up there and boogie". I will miss our meandering phone conversations and his sly sense of humour. He kindly signed my guitar and now I can carry him with me everytime I pick it up to play.
ciao ciao Johnny.
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Barbara-Anne Morton posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
John: Truly a moving tribute to you on Saturday April 6. I recall our days in Calgary when you played and sang with Sidewinder and The Club 21 Lincolns. But you were finally able to follow your bliss and your heart and achieve greatness by playing the Blues. "And when the earth shall claim your limbs then shall you truly dance".
Blessings, from your sister Barbara-Anne
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phil tolley posted a condolence
Monday, April 8, 2013
John tried to teach me some guitar.For that he will always be remembered. In return I took him to a couple of Flames games. I probably still owe him a few more games. Rest easy John. God Bless Phil T.
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John, Melanie and family posted a condolence
Monday, April 8, 2013
I just want to say My uncle John was the coolest cat I have ever known. I remember when i was around 12 years old he gave me my first guitar lesson. But before the lesson was over he made a call to one of his friends and set up some more lessons for me as he did not live in Saskatoon himself.I am so grateful that he passed the love of music on to me. A few years later my buddy Frank Romphf and i were jamming and all he could talk about was Van Halen this Van Halen that I was getting sick of it already. I said you want to hear some real music so i let him listen to Johnny V and the HouseRockers album. Let me tell you he was hooked on the music. After that all I hear was when is your uncle John coming to town. "When can i meet him? Do you think he will let me jam with you guys?" Also the time that Uncle John dedicated the song "Open Book" to my wife and I. He said he would only play it, if I got up and danced. What a guy, he knew I didn't like dancing, but we did. My wife never knew blues music until she met Uncle John, and instantly became a fan. We're gonna miss Uncle John. Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Debbie and James, Grandma and family.
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John & Cherie Musselwhite posted a condolence
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Johnny was a good friend to both of us and we'll cherish his memory forever. When I proposed to Cherie, Johnny was the first person we told and the first to give me advice for my upcoming marriage. Our condolences to his family and all his friends.
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Paul Ashwell posted a condolence
Sunday, April 7, 2013
I was thinking for a long time at the Memorial Jam Session at Mikey's Juke Joint about what to write in a book in which people were writing their tributes and reminiscing about Johnny. So I decided to write something about a subject which not many people will know about, the relationship Johnny had with his dog. Johnny's beautiful Greyhound was one of the big sources of joy in Johnny's life. I had a chance to stay with Johnny for a couple of days a few years back and got to watch the two of them together. Johnny loved that dog, and the dog loved him. They had a mutual respect and love for one another. Much like my own relationship with Mr. V.
Miss you something awful sir, may you truly rest in peace.
Hugs to James and Deb
Paul Ashwell
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Teri and Trond posted a condolence
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Words cannot describe how much we love you and will miss you
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Dylan MacDonald posted a condolence
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Soon as I meet an heard Johnny I knew he was the real deal an the dedication to the music involved in sounding he way he did
Played lots wih him over the yrs Never forget him !
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Brent and Cindy Parsons posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Sadly missed. A good friend and person who loved life loved to joke and laugh and loved his wife Deborah emensely.
Condolensces to you and your family Deb
Brent and Cindy
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Carol and Martin Chitwood posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Barbara,
We are very sorry to hear the sad news about your brother, Johnny V. Our sincere condolences to you and the entire Mills family. You are in our thoughts and prayers,
Carol and Martin
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Karen Martin posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Debbie, James and family.
It was always a real pleasure to have Johnny stop by the CMA office or have a phone call from him. I remember when he brought 'Little' James in with him and said 'This is my son James and he's learning to play the drums, maybe one day we'll be playing together'. And so they did ...
I think and read of all the lives he's touched and you are all so fortunate to have the blessings and support during this difficult time.
I know the musicians here in Calgary will never forget who he was and what he stood for.
RIP Johnny
Karen Martin, Calgary Musicians Association
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Kim Samson posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Your music will be missed, but not forgotten. My deepest sympathy to the family. The blues is always good news. Stay Gold!
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Eddy Brake posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Johnny, thank you for being my mentor, my friend and a better Brother I will never find. Ill always have your back!
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Fernanda Barron posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
Dear Debbie,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you and your family.
Thinking of you,
Hugs,
Fernanda
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Nellie Christie posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
My son John
.I remember many pairs of his pants got good and worn out from sliding down the salt pile at the end of our street
the city's salt supply for the streets in winter.
John got his education right at home experimenting on record players, tape recorders, and anything else that would move and turn.
He needed to know how they worked, and it paid off in the end because he learned the best way to use his own equipment.
Every so often he'd call me and ask, "Have you got enough food; are you warm enough?" John worried about me and wanted to make sure that I was okay. He never forgot his Mom, and we sure can't forget him. I love you John, Mom xxxooo
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Kathleen Byers posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
John
..I loved his laugh when he heard a great joke. I loved his thirst for learning! If you wanted to know something and you told John, you got the full report! Just like our Dad, when he was in the kitchen...when John tried a new recipe, he would say, "Here, taste this or, you gotta taste this!" It must be in our genes
I do that too! I'm sure Dad and John are cooking up some great food and making beautiful music - together! Love, your sister Kathy xxxooo
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Carl Moore posted a condolence
Friday, April 5, 2013
I didn't know Johnny V very well, but my first meeting with him was very memorable.
In August, 2006, I volunteered in my first music festival, the Beltline Blues Fest here in Calgary (now known as the Calgary International Blues Festival).
My buddy Rick Harper talked me into joining up, and managed to get onto the Stage Crew (best thing I've ever done!).
Being new to everything and not knowing anything, I watched everything and everybody.
I was just getting used to the routine of things (and getting to know that it's NEVER routine),
I watched performers file in about 30 min. or so before their part, play their set, linger a bit after, then move on.
But I distinctly remember this one guy roll in about two hours before...he methodically brought out all of his equipment and meticulously arranged and prepped
every guitar, every cable, every pick.
When he was satisfied that he had all is gear ready, he carefully set his guitar carousel aside, and waited by the stage for his turn.
Being a rookie, I was content on doing the rookie duties...water and towels...but for some reason, this was a particularly busy change,
so it was all hands in for a quick turnover.
At one point, I was standing, watching and waiting for a chance to do something, and Rick said to me "Carl, lift the guitar carousel up to the stage!"
So I did...and by the time Johnny saw me, it was almost in place.
Johnny's face was one of shock...but all he said was "Oh Brother, be careful with that!".
All-in-all, it worked out well and Johnny had a great set...but, thinking about it now, my first venture into "show business" could very well have been my last!
Luckily for me, there has been many more, and I've been lucky to learn a ton from a lot of folks.
Many artists and friends have posted stories of how Johnny's musical talent and drive has inspired and taught them...my first meeting was one where he taught me something different, giving me a firm base on how to work with the artists behind the scenes. Thanks, Johnny...RIP, Brother!
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Dave Currie posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I always enjoyed Johnny's playing. It was a real honour to play on stage with him when he ran a jam at the King's Head a few years back. R.I.P.
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Karen Dagenais posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Debby, James, and family, My thoughts are with you at this time of loss, I hope you are all celebrating the memories you shared with John, and cherishing the time your spending together. Wishing you all the best at this difficult time, if I can do anything for you, please don't hesitate to call. Karen D
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Scot Thayer posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Scot Thayer has sent this Expressions of Sympathy card.
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Bill Hills posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Talked with John the day before he passed, we laughed about the "old days", the Houserockers, the hundreds of nights, the music, and how much we both loved to have been part of the music that seemed to dominate our lives. We have been friends, bandmates, and brothers for more than thirty years, and I don't imagine that will end. I send my sympathies to the family,
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tony sloggett posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
.."heaven done called another blues stringer back home.."
r.i.p brother john, really gonna miss our marathon phone calls .. ciao buddy.
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Joanne Cassell posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
My deepest condolences Deb James and family. I will always remember Johnny , Thanks Johnny for the many years of friendship and the music
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Wanda Feland posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I booked Johnny many times. He was always a gentleman and a fabulous performer. Maybe you and my brother Dwayne( RIP) can get a serious jam going up there. Much love to the family.
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Jimmy Carver posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
May you rest in peace Johnny,as you bend beautiful blue notes in the afterlife...you leave us with great memories...
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Arlene posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I got to know Johnny 20 years ago when I worked for my friend Garth who was helping to book and promote Johnny back then. A few years ago Garth got sick and passed away. Johnny was a big support to him when he was sick and I know Garth always appreciated this. He may have had a gruff exterior but deep down I think he was a big softy. He will be missed.
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Randy Nantais posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Johnny and I became friends while taking lessons. He always had something for me to try,olives,sauce,hot pepper jam,pickles. He seemed to love my homemade vino.We were going to make smoked sausages together but something always came up.I would go for an hour lesson and come home three hours later. Johnny loved to tell great stories about his life and family. He was very proud of his son James and had a blast making a video with him in Calgary. He loved to show me the cool things James would send to him. My condolences to Johnny's family. We will miss you Johnny V.
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Lou Durnbeck posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I am truly saddened by JV's passing on and will miss him a lot. Was supposed to come over on Monday. He was my teacher, mentor and friend. I only knew him since last July but he welcomed me into his home and was kind and generous. Sure, he could play and sing great, but I liked him even more for who he was, a genuinely good person. Dammit JV, too young man.
Sincere condolences to Deb and his family, he loved you guys very much - and told me so!
Anything I can do, please contact me. Really.
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Danny Zane posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
did a two week fill in gig with John back in the 80's... Dillas on drums... had a blast... really enjoyed his playing... and quite the character! Will definitely be missed. RIP..
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Don yuzwenko posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
A flame that burned bright, a flame that burned out too soon. I knew you Johnny. The flame burns still.
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Donna Dawson posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
The music world has lost you John, however your many talents live on through your recordings and we hope your wife Debbie and son James find great comfort in this. Your sister Donna.
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Janet Charyton posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
I remember John when he played with my now ex husband Dillas Durfee in the 80's. Very talented man RIP Johnny V God bless you
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Duris Maxwell posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Being one of the musicians who Johnny let in was a real thrill for me. We played some astonishingly good music; had tremendous laughs; eat some great food; and, mostly enjoyed each other's company. I loved Johnny dearly as a friend and will miss him dearly as well. Sure, he stomped my guts a few times...but I always thought that was part of his charm. :)
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Corbie Dorner posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Johnny was a great teacher who always inspired me to be a more devoted father to my sons, a better husband to my wife, and a stronger listener when I play music, regardless of where I am playing it. I will miss his late night/early morning phone calls because he had something he needed me to know, and with Johnny, school was always in session, another endearing quality. I love you Johnny, like family. Ciao, ciao.
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sue posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
My deepest condolences to the Mills family and friends for the loss of Johnny, a great person. We will all miss him.
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Jenn Jenkinson, Calgary posted a condolence
Thursday, April 4, 2013
remembrances of many wonderful nights toe-tapping, clapping, money-maker shaking.. You leave us the ultimate legacy Johnny V, music.. the passion that is life. RIP Johnny
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Mike Bromley posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Sure, Johnny, I could say something pithy. But the sound would be hollow, in the footsteps of one of my favorite wordsmiths. Where ever you may be, I hope you're keepin' them in stitches, and blown back in their chairs. Miss you, V.
Doc
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Shane Croft posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
My condolences to Debbie, James & Johnnys family. I hadnt seen or talked to Johnny since 1997 but never forgot the years we played together. We had some amazing times & I always thought our paths would cross again. I guess not in this life time. Johnny was the Real Deal & absolutely one of the best guitarists to ever walk this planet. Rest In Peace Johnny
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steve katz posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
so sad to hear..I have very fond memories of playing with Johnny in my first band back in the 80s.
RIP brother.
SK
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Joe Quinlan posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Each and every meeting was a meaningful experience. So filled with life, hope, belief and love of music. It is artists like Johnny that we have to thank for the on=going success of Canada South Bluesfest. My memories of our talks will always be "Alive and Well"
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Maureen Chambers posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
John Mills was the real thing. He was true to his music and his friends. He was one of the most passionate people I have e ver met. I loved the man and had some wonderful times with him. The planet is a sad place without him. I send my love to Debbie, James and Johnny's family.
Maureen Chambers
Artistic Director
South Country Fair
Fort Macleod, AB
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Bill Dowey posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Peace be with you Johnny.
Your Blues will live on.
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Brother Ray Lemelin posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
thanks John for the time we had and all the lessons you taught me, not just on guitar but about true commitment to music, that is something that never diminished in you and that i will always cherish,..Godspeed and we'll meet on the other side,..love always , your lil Brother Ray
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Chris maxwell posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Thank you for the privilege of playing with you over the years and teaching me so much. My deepest condolences to the family. He was a treasure in the music industry and will be greatly missed
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Kevin Klein posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
I got the opportunity to work for Johnny and loved every minute. He will be missed and remembered.
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Bryan Taylor posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
RIP and enjoy the house band "up there"...
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greg godovitz posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
A great musician and a man who walked to the beat of his own drum. I am eternally thankful that I had the chance to perform alongside him.
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John R Hunter posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Johnny I will never forget you and the good times we had. You were a blues treasure to the world. Rest in peace my friend with all the cats you know up there. Someday I too will join you and we'll laugh and play the blues again.
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Brock posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
V,
As you said on the CD jacket, "Thanks for giving me and Duris your studio cherry".
I am ever grateful for the opportunity to record with you, and to have learned so
much right from the soul of a trust artist and bluesman when we performed together.
I will remember you always.
Brock Gillis
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Terry Blankley posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Sincere condolences to you two and Johnny's family!We were looking forward to the Oshawa gig to say hello.All the best in the future!
Terry and Lynn Blankley
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Brian Cober posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
My condolences to Johns family and friends. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. One of a kind musician.
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keith mcneil posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
He was a good friend,I will miss him dearly.I will think of him whenever I pick up my guitar or listen to the blues.
Rest in Peace friend.
Saturday
6
April
Memorial Service
2:00 pm
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Place Concorde
7515 Forest Glade Dr.
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
197 King St. West | Harrow, Ontario N0R 1G0
Phone: 519-738-6662 | Fax: 519-738-9884
