James Maurice Mitchell

James Maurice Mitchell, age 81, of Grants Pass, died Saturday, September 19, 2009 in his home, surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born to the late Richard & Sally Mitchell in Orange, New Jersey, on October 29, 1927. Jim left high school to join the United States Navy at the early age of 17, returned from the war and graduated from Pittsfield High School, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, 1946. He then re-enlisted in the Navy where he had a 22 year career as a Chief Photographer’s Mate, traveling the world and 81 countries. Jim was proud of his military career, and went on to work in Civil Service at Vandenberg Air Force Base photographing missile launches. He retired to Grants Pass, Oregon, in 1972.

He enjoyed white water rafting on the Rogue River, volunteer work at Wildlife Images (many Grants Pass children now grown will fondly remember him as “Alligator Jim”), and traveled extensively with his family and friends, especially loving the lush island of Kauai. He will be remembered for his big heart, his quick smile, his helping hand, and his great kindness. Jim had a wonderful zest for life, a huge heart for the animal kingdom, and the greatest love of his life was his dear wife, Millie. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought such joy to his life. Jim will be sorely missed by both family and friends.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Millie, his daughters Linda Mitchell of Sandpoint, Idaho, Maureen McLaughlin of Grants Pass, Oregon and Kathleen Mitchell of Port Townsend, Washington; his sons-in-law Curtis Pearson, Don McLaughlin, and Scott Landis; his grandchildren Michael McLaughlin and Amy McLaughlin, his granddaughter-in-law, Carrie McLaughlin, his step-grandchildren Sasha and Lael Landis, his great-grandchildren, Garrett & Peyton McLaughlin; his Aunt, Ruth Meeker; cousins Charles Meeker Jr. and Carol Cleland, and his faithful dog, Otis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Jimmy Mitchell, his brother, Donnie Mitchell, his Uncle, Charles Meeker, and his dear friend Dave Siddon.

A private family service has been held. Hull & Hull Funeral Directors are were in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations can be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 1332 North Halsted Street, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60642, National Parkinson Foundation, Inc., Office of Development, 1501 NW 9th Ave/Bob Hope Road, Miami, Florida 33136 or animal charity of your choice.