Jack Mitchell

Jack J. Mitchell, 78, of Sun City, Arizona passed away September 8, 2016.

Jack Joe Mitchell was born September 20, 1937, the oldest of three children of Dorothy “Darlyne” Johnson Mitchell and Harvey Laverne Mitchell. He grew up and graduated from high school in his birthplace, Jefferson, Iowa. Jack served in the National Guard and US Army.

On April 6, 1962, Jack married Janice Durlam Mitchell in Jefferson. Together they raised their two daughters, Sherri and Vicki, in Jefferson and San Diego, Calif. Jack made his living in commercial refrigeration while living in San Diego and Ramona, Calif. After retirement, Jack and Jan moved to Fernley, Nev. and later, Sun City, Ariz.

He was a charter member of The Elks Lodge, a lifetime member of the VFW and a member of the Loyal Order of Moose.

Jack was “one of a kind” and will be remembered for his sharp wit, his dry and ever present sense of humor, his unique perspective of our world, his dedication to being a good provider and teacher, and his sometimes silent, but always present and deep, love for all of the people in his life.

Jack’s favorite moments were spent with family and friends, listening to music, camping, watching sports and working through crosswords. Jack and Janice recently enjoyed summer months at their mountain home in Munds Park, Ariz.

Jack is survived by his wife of 54 years, Janice; daughters, Sherri (Ron) Unruh of Ramona, Calif. and Vicki (Bruce) Jackson of Longmont, Colo.; grandchildren: Robin (Unruh) Busse, Sandra Unruh, Matthew (Jenica) Hanna, Samantha and Elaina Jackson; and great grandchildren: Brody, Bryson, Elizabeth, Alexis and Kaitlyn. He is also survived by his brother, Jerol Mitchell of Borrego Springs, Calif.; sister, Bonnie (Doug) Boothroy of Iowa City, Iowa; brother-in-law, Jerry (Annette) Durlam of Thorton, Colo.; aunt, Marjorie (Gabriel) Luther of Avondale, Pa.; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents.

If you’d like to pay tribute to Jack’s memory, the family would be pleased to know that you supported Hospice of the West, Attention: Everyday is a Gift Fund, 21410 N 19th Ave, Ste 100, Phoenix, AZ 85027.

A Celebration of Life will be held October 29, 2016 at the family home in Sun City, Ariz. Condolences may be sent to the family at j7mitch@yahoo.com.