Michael David Mitchell

On May 23, 2024, Michael David Mitchell, age 68, of Hokah, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning. Mike’s two greatest passions were his faith in Jesus and his family. He enjoyed praying daily with his wife Judy for his four children, thirteen grandchildren, and his two great-grandchildren. Throughout much of Mike’s life, he was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed deer and turkey hunting, trout fishing, canoeing, and generally being in nature. He also was a sports enthusiast, who followed multiple teams, his favorite were the Chicago Cubs and the Minnesota Vikings. Mike was a natural storyteller and enjoyed reminiscing about local history. In his later years, he was a leather craftsman who crafted bracelets and satchels for Rendezvous. He spent his life as an industrial and home exterior and interior painter. His two favorite scripture passages were Ephesians 6:10-18 and Psalm 91. He felt so blessed to have so many grandchildren and to be a great-grandfather. 

Mike was born on May 5, 1956, to Rita (Pitz) and Calvin Mitchell. He is survived by his wife Judy (Welke) Mitchell of Hokah, four children, Julie (Tom) of Eyota, Minnesota, Melissa (John) of Zumbrota, Minnesota, Jolyn (Orman) of Barnhart, Missouri and Michael Mitchell of La Crosse, Wisconsin. His thirteen grandchildren: Jeremiah, Caleb (Dominique), Josiah (Katie), Lydia, Bethany Jones, Malcolm, Emily Meyers, Orman, Owen, Katelyn, Oliver, Evelyn, and Adelyn House, two great-grandchildren, Penelope and Violet Jones, siblings Diane Starch, Pat (Bob) Matson, Rita (Terry) Gruntzel, and Ben (Dawn) Spagl. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Sandy (Larry) Langen, brother Cal (Joan) Mitchell, sister Nancy Mitchell, brother-in-law Larry Starch, niece Julie Howard, and two infant siblings Julie and Ricky Mitchell.

A private memorial will take place for immediate family per Mike’s wishes. In lieu of flowers and cards, donations can be made to Samaritans’ Purse Christmas Shoe Boxes and The Christian Worship Hour P.O. Box 2002, Aberdeen, SD 57402. His spouse, Judy Mitchell, wishes to express thanks for all the condolences, food gifts, and outpouring of kindness she has received.