Alaine Mills

Alaine Joan Feske Mills, of Colusa, was an angel, enriching the lives of all who came in contact with her. She was always helping people, even people she didn’t know. To sit with her was to tell your story, in detail, with her listening ears ever attentive and her sage advice always present.

She became a certified Activites Director through American River College and, as the Activities Director at Colus Regional Medical Center, she always made sure those who were sick always had something to do and were encouraged. She brough in Gus, the gentle pet therapy dog, so patients could have something to take their minds off of their medical condition, regardless of how serious. She arranged for musci, which can liven up the soul in otherwise difficult times. She brought in clergy for those seeking spiritual comfort. She even “prayed” people “into heaven” as they passed.

Alaine Joan Aeilts was born on June 11, 1944, in Adrian, Minn., and grew up in Sioux Falls, S.D. In 1962 she moved to California, where she raised her three children. Alaine passed away on June 5, 2008, of cancer. She is survived by her son LaMont Feske and daughter-in-law Joyce of Yuba City, her daughters Larissa Travers of Paradise and Verona Macdonell of Roseville and their father, Dan Feske, of Sacramento; sisters Joyce Pack of Gridley, Mavis Hawkins of Sioux Falls, Verona rojas of Boomtown, Nev., and brothers Daniel Aeilts of Paradise, Darwin Aeilts of Sioux Falls, S.D., and Anthony Aeilts of Chico. there are 11 grandchildren and their spouses, four great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and many, many friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sebina Voortman, and sister Janice Overbee.

Well known and very loved by those who had the privilege of knowing her, Alaine was a kind, giving person, who was known to take children into her home, from foster children to shoe who just needed somewhere to live. One of her most recent rescues was Charlie, the cat she took in after it had been nearly mutilated by a car - the cat she came to love and adore after being a dog person her whole life.

Alaine spent her life caring for her children and the elderly, always making sure they were cared for properly. her career with elderly became the perfect job for her, as she was so gifted in comforting others. Her career became a blessing for those who needed someone like her.

she gave her heart to the community, participating in parades, hospital events and the lives of those who needed a friendly ear. She will be remembered for her strength over adversity, her drive to live and not complain. She was also remembered for her desrite to help those who needed love and care. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

Alaine had a private inurnment at Chico Memorial Mausoleum. A memorial service will be held to honor her life on Sunday, June 29, at 1 p.m. at First Christian Church, 725 Jay Street, Colusa, officiated by Rev. Melvina J. Symons.