January 21, 1959 – December 21, 2011
James Ronald Mitchell, age 52, passed on in his sleep, at home on December 21, 2011 after major surgery in July, 2011 and seriously worsening health. Jim wasn't just a "Big Guy" in stature (protecting his sisters), he was the one with the "Biggest and Best Hugs" and a really "Big Heart". One of his favorite sayings was "Always remember, family first!". He had the best characteristics any man could ever have, and we call it "Tough and Tender". The entire family is proud of Jim and all his accomplishments in the Oil Field Industry and the man he had become. His mother called him "Her Rock!", and he will live in all our hearts forever! He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois on January 21, 1959. He graduated from Cherry Creek High School in Englewood, CO, class of 1977. Jim is survived by a whole bunch of family, Carole Mitchell, mother, Elizabeth, CO; Ronald, father and Nancy Jo Mitchell, Belleville, IL; adopted son, Bob Mitchell; sister, Deb Elliott and brother-in-law, David Elliott, Grand Junction; sister, Sherri Connell and brother-in-law, Wayne Connell, Parker, CO; step-brother, Marty Manion of Addieville, IL; step-sister, Michelle Zendejas, Yorktown, VA, and half-brother, Christopher Mitchell of Swansea, IL; Uncle fun's one and only niece, Holly Dee Carey; great-nephew, Cain Lee Hendricks, and great-niece, Avery Dee Carey, all three of Grand Junction; and last but not least, his best friend, Cindi Carmack and Mike Sanchez, and all of his biker brothers and sisters throughout the Grand Valley. Pallbearers will be Mike Sanchez, Dave Murphy, Dave Nettleton, Greg Grewell, Todd Rodamaker, and Bob Arbuckle. These special people will carry him to his place of rest in the Orchard Mesa Cemetery in Grand Junction. Organizations that Jim loved included The Eagles, Riders for Justice and his family. He enjoyed racing, riding, driving or repairing anything that goes fast. He enjoyed karaoke, church, and family. He was a Harley man to the core, participating in the Annual Toy Run for over 20 years, and being a motorhead extraordinaire. Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 29, 2011 at Martin Mortuary, 550 North Ave., Grand Junction, at 2:30 p.m. A motorcycle procession immediately after is encouraged, and was one of Jim's final wishes. It will begin from Martin Mortuary to the Eagles Lodge (top of the 5th Street hill) for a reception and potluck (chili provided). There, we will share tears, memories and laughter to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to IDA, in Memory of Jim Mitchell at www.invisibledisabilities.org or IDA, PO Box 4067, Parker, CO 80134, which Jim was heavily dedicated to and which was founded by sister and brother-in-law (non profit).
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