John R. Mitchell Sr., loved gardening
John R. Mitchell Sr., 79, of Dagsboro, formerly of Lancaster, Pa., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Saturday, April 6, 2019, at his home.
He was born Jan. 10, 1940, in Lancaster, the son of the late Edward Mitchell and Edna (Adams) Pierce. John proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1964-66 during the Vietnam War era. After his discharge from military service, he worked for a short period for Black & Decker and then Skyline Distributors, where he met his future wife, Donna J. Altland. He and Donna opened a personal care home called Mitchell Manor that they owned and operated for 11 years before moving to Dagsboro in 1988. Once he “retired” to Delaware, he then started his painting business called John Mitchell Painting & Wallpapering.
John loved painting and wallpapering homes in the beach community, working in his yard and gardening. He was an avid collector of Zippo Lighters, and enjoyed refinishing antiques and woodworking. John loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather who raised him, Harold Pierce; and three siblings, George, Ed and Edna. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Donna J. Mitchell; two sons, John R. Mitchell Jr. of Dagsboro, and William Mitchell and his wife Kelly of Dagsboro; four grandsons, Austin, Nathen, Joel and Sam Mitchell; his best friend and canine companion, Junie; two sisters, Rose and Mary; and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 13, at the Ocean View Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, where friends and family may call after 1 p.m. Interment will follow at St. George’s Cemetery in Clarksville.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in John’s name to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
