Mary Arlene Mitchell

She was born on Saturday, February 18, 1928 in Long Beach, California and graduated from Wilson High School. It was at a high school event honoring World War II servicemen that 14 year old Mary met the love of her life, William W. Mitchell, just before he was sent to the South Pacific. Four long years and many letters later, William (Bill) returned to Long Beach and his Mary, and they were married on November 27, 1946. Bill built them a home in Garden Grove where they moved and raised their family.

Mary adored her family. Her bright green eyes would light up for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was their greatest fan. They all enjoyed family vacations together to Burney Falls and Lake Mohave and had fun everywhere they went. She always had a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, a kind face and kind words for everyone. Mary loved holidays, but especially Christmas. It was her favorite time of the year.. More recently, she and Bill enjoyed weekend brunches, wine tasting in Temecula, trips to the Pala Casino and backyard pool parties with their family. Together they attended Canyon Lake Community Church. Mary worked for the McDonnell-Douglas Credit Union for over 25 years where she served as manager for several years before retiring.

Mary is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, William W. Mitchell; daughters Linda(Rudi) Camenzind of Corona and Sharon(Lee) Elstran of Huntington Beach; 3 grandchildren, Brett, Ryan, and Jennifer; 7 great-grandchildren, Karina, Jaylene, Shayne, Jack, Jia, Braden and Rylee, and her sister-in-law Dorothy DeLapp of Los Angeles.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, August 18, 2011, at Miller-Jones Sun City Mortuary, 26770 Murrieta Road, Sun City, CA. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 19, 2011, 12PM at Canyon Lake Community Church, 30515 Railroad Canyon Rd, Canyon Lake, CA. Private Family Interment will be at the Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.miller-jones.com