Mitchell, Clarence
1923 – 2012
Clarence Mitchell, longtime Campbell River resident, passed peacefully from this life on July 3 in Campbell River and District General Hospital after a lengthy illness.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Betty (the former Betty Harpur), daughter Marion Gonsky (JR Kuster) of Campbell River, sons Dale (Joanne) of Vernon, Jerry (Doreen) of Port McNeill and Bob (Lil) of Nanaimo, eight grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren with another one on the way, and his brother Allen Mitchell of Chase.
Growing up during the Depression years without a mother, Mitch had a difficult early life but formed a deep relationship with his only sibling (at the time), Murray, who predeceased him several years ago. After a stint in the Merchant Marine service during WW II, Mitch met Betty and married her in 1947. The love and inspiration provided by Betty and her family (especially Betty's mother Mary) changed his life and helped him to become the great dad that he was. Mitch and Betty moved to the coast in 1949 and raised their family in several locations on Vancouver Island, moving to Campbell River in 1959 and with the exception of one year, have lived there ever since.
Mitch was an excellent provider and spent most of his working life close to the forest industry as a machine operator, trucker and mechanic. He could tackle any repair job and find a way to fix any machine. He never lacked confidence when faced with a new challenge.
His retirement years were truly golden. Their home was a crossroads for family and friends of all ages. Visitors were many and often, especially at happy hour on Fridays.
Mitch was well attended in his final hours by family and friends, a sign of a life well lived.
In lieu of a service, there will be an informal tea at the Elks Hall, 516 South Dogwood Street, from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday July 14. Friends are invited to drop by, share a story about Mitch and wish him well on his new journey.
No flowers, by request of the family. In appreciation of the excellent and caring treatment he received from hospital staff, donations may be made in his name to the CR Hospital Foundation.