Theresa "Terri" (nee.Kolar formerly Zirzow) Mills' Obituary
Theresa "Terri" (nee. Kolar formerly Zirzow) Mills, 80, of Grafton, Ohio, passed away on April 13, 2025. She was born on January 18, 1945, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Robert and Theresa Kolar.
Terri was the cherished wife of William "Bill" Mills, with whom she shared 15 wonderful years. She leaves behind her devoted children, William (Cindy) Zirzow, Laura (Mark) Ruggiero, Daniel Zirzow, Robert Zirzow, and Jordan Mills, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Abby Zirzow, Tommy Zirzow, Zeke (McKenzie) Zirzow, Gus Ruggiero, and Alex Ruggiero. Her legacy is further carried on by her great-grandchildren, Rory Zirzow and Nolan Zirzow. Terri is also survived by her siblings, Barbara Calla Johnson, Louie (Roz) Kolar, and John Kolar, along with her sister-in-law, Sun Kolar, her many nieces and nephews, and her great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson, Ben Zirzow, her brother Robert Kolar, her sister-in-law, Robin Kolar, and her brother-in-law Ned Calla.
Terri lived a life filled with love, generosity, and a passion for inspiring others. She was known for her beauty, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends. Always wanting to be the caregiver and protector, Terri consistently put others before herself, embodying the true spirit of selflessness and love.
Known as the “Fun Lunch Lady” at North Ridgeville Middle School, she brought joy to students before transitioning to a 20-year career as an assistant for a Lorain County judge. Terri was a mother to everyone, always opening her heart and home to those in need. Her philosophy of “leave someplace better than when you got there” shone through in her tireless volunteering and community involvement.
The neighborhood kids were drawn to Terri’s kitchen, captivated by the irresistible smell of her famous chocolate chip cookies. Her meatball subs became legendary during the after-parties she hosted for high school football games—a tradition so beloved that her children and other families continued it after her kids graduated. Terri found peace and beauty in watching storms roll in on the lake and marveling at breathtaking sunsets, moments that reflected her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Terri cherished traveling, dining out, and spending time with her family. Her positive spirit encouraged everyone around her to strive for their dreams. She was a beautiful person inside and out, whose warmth, love, and devotion will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sunset Chapel, 6245 Columbia Rd., North Olmsted, Ohio 44070. A private service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Hydrocephalus Association to continue their efforts in educating the public about the “curable dementia” and researching cures for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). Donations can be made at https://www.hydroassoc.org
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