Ryan James Mills

November 9, 1981 – July 29, 2026

Ryan James Mills, 44, of Spokane, Washington, died peacefully on July 29, 2026, in Chewelah, Washington, after a short illness with cancer.

Ryan was born November 9, 1981, in Spokane to Clark and Wendy Egan Mills. Following the passing of his mother, Wendy, his stepmother, Evelyn Koontz Mills, became an important and enduring presence in his life.

An engineer by profession and an artist by nature, Ryan worked for Quisenberry, where his intelligence, skill, and attention to detail served him throughout his career. But some of Ryan’s greatest passions were found beyond engineering, particularly through the lens of his camera.

A professional photographer, Ryan’s work took him throughout Europe, combining his love of travel with his deep appreciation for fine art. Dance photography held a special place in Ryan’s work. Over the years, he worked with dancers from several studios, capturing both the artistry of their movement and the individuality of the people in front of his lens. Photography was more than an occupation for Ryan. It was a passion that carried him across the world, introduced him to people who would become lifelong friends, and allowed him to create something lasting from the beauty he saw around him.

His creativity extended well beyond photography. Ryan was a musician who played bass, an avid gamer, and someone with a genuine love and appreciation for art in its many forms. Whether behind a camera, playing music, traveling somewhere new, or appreciating the work of another artist, curiosity and creativity were woven throughout his life.

Ryan was rich in the relationships he formed throughout his life. His travels brought people into his world from many places, and he valued the friendships and connections that endured long after the journeys themselves had ended. Closer to home, Ryan cherished a small circle of dear friends whom he loved and regarded as family. To those fortunate enough to be part of that circle, his friendship was lasting, meaningful, and deeply treasured.

Ryan is survived by his sister, Katy Voortman, his stepmother, Evelyn Koontz Mills, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clark Mills and Wendy Egan Mills. Ryan was laid to rest at Riverside Memorial Park in Spokane, Washington.

“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb. And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.”

— Kahlil Gibran, “On Death,” The Prophet