Martin L. Mitchell

Marty graduated from Fremont High School in 1969, where he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Shirlee (Williamson) Mitchell. He earned his undergraduate degree from Olivet College, received his master’s from Purdue University, and completed his doctorate at Western Michigan University. During his time at Olivet, Marty discovered his life’s calling while working at Starr Commonwealth, a moment that would shape the course of his life and career.

Marty dedicated over four decades to Starr Commonwealth, eventually serving as President and CEO. He was a transformational leader who expanded the organization’s reach and impact worldwide. Guided by Starr’s foundational belief that “there is no such thing as a bad child,” Marty championed programs rooted in compassion, resilience, and healing. He was a firm believer in the Oneness of Humankind, a conviction that shaped his leadership and inspired a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and respect for all. His leadership touched countless lives and built a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

While his professional achievements were profound, Marty’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished life on Coldwater Lake, where he and Shirlee built a home full of warmth, laughter, and tradition. He found happiness in the simple moments: sunset pontoon rides, early morning fishing trips, watching the Coldwater Lake Fourth of July fireworks, peaceful walks with his beloved dog Beau, and sitting around bonfires with loved ones. He never missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren at their sporting events, and he relished family vacations, big meals at the lake, and any occasion that brought his family together.

Marty had a true love for life and lived each day to the fullest. He taught his family by example, the importance of kindness, laughter, generosity, and the power of being present for others.

A man of deep character, Marty will be remembered for his genuine spirit, gentle strength, and unwavering integrity. He believed in the goodness of people and the power of community, and he lived those values every single day.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirlee; his daughters, Lisa Veich (Derek Boldon), Lynda Kipp (Jeff), and Leslie Hawblitz (Lance); and his beloved grandchildren: Chandler Veich, Riley Kipp, Kyle Veich, Carson Kipp, Kylie Brown, and Koby Brown. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Lantz; his sister-in-law, Sharon Dodge (Harley); and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Thelma Mitchell; his sister, Patricia Champion; his parents-in-law, Ralph and Jane Williamson; and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Champion, Jerry Lantz, and Lindsay Williamson.

Through the life he lived, the people he served, and the memories he created, Marty leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 11, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Beams Funeral Home in Fremont, Indiana. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Fremont United Methodist Church in Fremont, Indiana.

Burial will follow the service at Ray-Covenanter Cemetery, Fremont, Indiana.

The family kindly requests that gifts in Marty’s memory be made to Starr Commonwealth or Fremont United Methodist Church, continuing the mission he dedicated his life to of healing, service, and hope.