Ken Mills, immediate past president of the Irrigation Association, is remembered as a charismatic leader who was direct and honest and cared deeply about the irrigation industry.
Mills, president of the Irrigation Association from November 2005 to November 2006, died May 3 in Tucson, after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 65. During a 43-year career at Rain Bird Corporation, Mills rose to the position of vice president of the turf division.
“I was always struck by how seriously he took his responsibility to the Irrigation Association and the industry,” said IA President John Roberts. “He put aside his company affiliation and was truly looking out for the good of the industry.”
“He approached difficult issues with wisdom,” Roberts said. “He was always clear and direct in his communications. I found him easy to work with because I knew he was coming from a place of integrity and sincerity.”
Jack Buzzard, a longtime friend and colleague, noted that Mills was charismatic, empathetic and had a great sense of humor.
“He was there when you needed him,” Buzzard said. “He was inclusive, a wonderful communicator and represented well the thoughts of those who depended on him, whether that was Rain Bird, the Irrigation Association or family and friends.”
“He told you the truth and helped you understand and accept it,” Buzzard said. “He could give you hope and vision for a better future.”
Ron Wolfarth, director of Rain Bird’s landscape irrigation division, said Mills’ direct approach endeared him to his colleagues and made him a helpful mentor to many.
“Everybody looked to him as the industry veteran, someone whose knowledge of the industry and of customers and of products was extremely deep and someone who people came to rely on,” Wolfarth said.
Mills was known as a positive force for innovation at the IA. As chair of the Expo Advisory Council, he instituted an annual survey of attendees and exhibitors and pushed for fresh new ideas for the International Irrigation Show, said Tom Kimmell, retired IA executive director. Mills was proud of his role leading the search last year that led to the hiring of Executive Director Deborah Hamlin, Kimmell said.
Mills also was known for commitment to his family and his passion for golf and fly fishing.
“I’m glad I got to see him fly fish,” Roberts said. “He could throw a great fly, and he was fun to fish with.”