Obituary

John lee “mitch” mitchell, 97, of charleston, passed away tuesday, oct. 21, 2014 at hubbard hospice house, charleston.
John, who was widely known as “mitch,” was very friendly, outgoing and always good-natured. His warm and sincere charm won him many friends, and he especially enjoyed a good party, dancing, good food and dressing up for an occasion. He also had a strong sense of duty and was very dedicated to the military, his employers and family. Throughout his life he received many awards and recognition for hard work, achievement and leadership. As a result, he was given a lifetime achievement award by magnolia high school in his hometown of new martinsville, w.Va.
He was deeply committed to his marriage to eleanor for over 66 years and, though he was well into his 90s, insisted on being involved in eleanor’s care during the final phases of her life. John will also be remembered for his great sense of humor. He enjoyed hearing or telling funny stories and was always able to find a reason to smile and laugh, bringing out that well-known twinkle in his eyes. John was not a stranger in the kitchen and was renowned for his baking, especially pies. His homemade fruitcakes at christmas were his specialty and a tradition he has passed down to his family.
John’s final days were a testament to his sense of decorum and honor. He passed away peacefully and with dignity in the loving arms of his children. Glen miller music played on as john left this world to rejoin eleanor, his eldest son, john ii, other relatives and many friends in heaven.
He was a retired merchandiser and regional manager with colgate palmolive inc. In charleston and was a retired captain from the u.S. Army reserve.
John came to charleston in 1941 and attended the basilica of the co-cathedral of the sacred heart.
He attended montana state college, marshall university and morris harvey.
John was a world war ii veteran, serving in the army air corps.
He was a member of the elks, army navy club, worked the polls in charleston for 48 years, and was past president of the armed forces association and the retired officers association.
In addition to his wife, eleanor, he was preceded in death by his son, john lee mitchell ii.
He is survived by his daughter, debbie (kent) carper of charleston; son, mike (lori) mitchell of chicago, ill.; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Funeral will be 2 p.M. Saturday, oct. 25, at barlow bonsall funeral home, charleston, with monsignor p. Edward sadie officiating. Burial will follow at mount olivet catholic cemetery, charleston.
Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to hospicecare, 1606 kanawha blvd. W., charleston, wv 25387-2536.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.Barlowbonsall.Com.
Barlow bonsall funeral home, charleston, has been entrusted with the arrangements