Mark Duane Mitchell

While growing up in Denver, Mark was the personification of the saying “He never met a stranger.” He was not only known for his ability to interact with people from all walks of life but once he befriended you it was a bond never broken. Mark looked for and usually found the good in a person never having anything bad or negative to say even when warranted. Mark was the person that would give you the shirt off his back and offer you the last dollar in his pocket

He possessed a fun loving spirit, always displayed a easy going and humble demeanor, had a special way with words and possessed an uncanny sense of humor.

Mark’s take on life was simple: Food, Folks, Fun and Love everyone. He was a caring Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, loving his family to the end. He was to us like a Black Eagle soaring high overhead; strong and powerful, keeping a watchful eye. We were amazed at his athleticism. The stature of a natural athlete. Mark could throw a football the length of the football field. We would play basketball for hours. He would have excelled in any sport had he decided to participate: track, football, baseball. No doubt becoming an All-American. He most likely would have been voted MVP.

Listening to R&B music from the 70’s was his love. Earth, Wind & Fire, Ohio Players, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Stevie Wonder to name a few. One was blessed when they happened to catch him singing a verse or melody in perfect pitch along with one of his favorite old-school groups, his favorite being The Isley Brothers. Sometimes behind closed doors one could not distinguish Ron Isley’s voice from Mark’s! It was magical. When enjoying himself at a BBQ get-together with family and friends he was always requested to sing which he didn’t mind at all. He also had a hidden talent of playing bongos. The was a gift he would often display to his cousin Pam who is also gifted at playing numerous instruments.

Mark met the love of his life Marilyn Horton 26 years ago, and the two of them along with her children decided to move to Arizona. Once there he continued to do what he had always; be the personification of love. He began to establish the distinctive title of Loving Husband and Father. Mark loved his family and spent endless hours doing what fathers do; raising, caring and providing. He did all that was expected of a man. It came naturally to Mark.

Mark Duane Mitchell left this earthly plane on June 2, 2020 at Boswell Medical Center in Sun City, Arizona and was greeted at the Gates of Heaven by one of God’s newly anointed angels, his mother Odessa who passed October 15, 2019.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Marilyn Horton Mitchell, three Brothers, Daryl Mitchell, Byron Russell, and Kevin Russell, one Sister Debra Grove all of Denver, Colorado, two Sons, Michael and Myron, four Daughters, Michelle, Melissa, Malasha and Ulene all of Phoenix, Arizona, two Sisters-in-law, Zeta and Ada of Phoenix, Arizona, 19 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

Mark also leaves one very special friend. Lisa Akins stood with Mark and Marilyn for over 17 years never failing in her love and support. She is a special person, and unfailing friend and a constant presence in our lives.

We thank each of you for your love across the years.