Donald M. Mitchell

Donald M. Mitchell, 90, unexpectedly, yet peacefully passed into the waiting arms of his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at his residence in Napoleon. Don was born June 15, 1932 in Napoleon, Ohio to the late Paul and Helen (Plassman) Mitchell. He was baptized at Emanuel Lutheran Church, Napoleon, and was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Napoleon. Don started working at Northwest News of Napoleon at 16 years old and then faithfully and bravely served in the Korean War in the United States Army, earning the Korean Service Ribbon, the UN Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, while attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon returning to his hometown from Korea, he continued work as a typesetter at the newspaper. Following his work with the newspaper, Don started a career in law enforcement working for the Henry County Sheriff Department from 1961-1986, retiring as Chief Deputy. Following his retirement from law enforcement he enjoyed a number of years in retail, working in the paint department for The Anderson’s in Maumee. In addition to his career, Don spent much of his time enjoying his many hobbies, including furniture refinishing, collecting glassware and antiques, snow skiing, attending auctions and estate sales and reading fictional western books. Don knew no strangers, and while he never married, he took great joy in socializing and had an enormous circle of friends he met throughout his life that he loved to visit, right up until his passing. His faith was deep, and his smile and friendly demeanor reflected his love for others. Don is survived by a nephew, David (Connie) Schnitkey; and nieces, Ann (Scott) Fritz, Sharon (Tom) Scovanner, and Carol (Andy) Small; as well as many great nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister, Elizabeth “Liz” (Bill) Schnitkey; and brother, Ellsworth “Bud” (Florence) Mitchell; and nephews, Kenneth (Sue) Schnitkey and Kevin Schnitkey. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 24th at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Glenwood Avenue in Napoleon, where military honors will be held at the church immediately following the service. The service will be livestreamed at stpaulnapoleon.org. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home, Napoleon and Friday from 10-11 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church or The Wounded Warrior Project. Online condolences may be made online at www.rodenbergergray.com

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Donald M. Mitchell

June 15, 1932 - March 21, 2023