James Chester Mitchell, 84

James Chester Mitchell was born December 14, 1926, in Minneapolis, to James and Isabelle (O’Grady) Mitchell.   At the age of 6 he moved with his family to a farm just north of Faribault.  He graduated from Bethlehem Academy and in November 1945, joined the US Army.  He served in the Philippines and following his honorable discharge in January 1947, returned to Faribault.  He married Ella Juaire on June 3, 1953, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Faribault.  After marriage they lived a short time in Faribault before moving to Dundas.  In 1968, they purchased their farm in Greenvale Township, just north of Northfield.  Along with being a truck driver for various companies, Jim farmed part time, retiring in 1990.  Following retirement he drove part time and worked for MDOT.  Jim was a member of the Church of St. Dominic, the Northfield VFW and the Northfield American Legion.  

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Ella; 7 children: Jim of Ohio, David of Burnsville, Mary and husband Perry Collins of Castle Rock, Connie Staley and companion Frank Dougert of Veseli, John and companion Patty Hanna of Northfield, Mike and wife Tonia of New Prague, Randy of Northfield; 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; his brother John of Minneapolis; and other relative and friends.  He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Melissa and his parents.

Jim passed away with his family by his side on Sunday afternoon, December 4, 2011, at the Minneapolis Veteran’s Home, at the age of 85.

Funeral services will be 10AM Thursday, December 8, 2011, at the Minneapolis Veteran’s Home, 5101 Minnehaha Ave. So.  Interment with military honors will be in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.  Visitation will be 4-7PM Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at the Benson & Langehough Funeral Home in Northfield.  

Arrangements are with the Benson & Langehough Funeral Home.