Donald E. Mitchell

Donald E. Mitchell, 88, of rural Sprague, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. Born on August 1, 1937, on the family farm near Wymore, Nebraska. Don was the son of Glen E. and Alice L. (Kurtzer) Mitchell. Weighing just 3 pounds 8 ounces at birth, his parents lovingly kept him warm on the open oven door—a story he cherished and shared throughout his life.

Don attended Rose Hill District No. 77 Elementary School and later Central High School. Following graduation, he entered basic training and proudly served as a “weekend soldier” in the Army Reserves for six years.

Though a shy young man, Don’s life forever changed when he met the love of his life, Margaret, at Tastee Drive-In, where she worked as a carhop. Their connection was immediate and lasting. The couple was united in marriage on October 15, 1960, in Sprague, Nebraska, and went on to share 65 wonderful years together. They welcomed three children—Mike, Marilyn, and Mary—whom they raised in the cherished family farmhouse that became the center of countless memories.

Don was deeply committed to his community and generously volunteered his time. He served as President of the Norris School Board, played an instrumental role in the founding of Central Light and Recreation, served on the Sprague Community Church Board, and was a key leader with Olive Branch Insurance. His dedication and service left a meaningful and lasting impact on those around him.

A lifelong farmer, Don took immense pride in tending the land. In his later years, he found joy in curating his tractor museum, a personal tribute to the farming legacy he loved so dearly. He enjoyed reminiscing about the past and sharing stories with anyone who stopped by.

Don lived out a strong Christian faith and carried a true servant’s heart. His greatest joy came from his family—especially his 8 grandchildren, whose activities he faithfully supported near and far. In his later years, his 9 great-grandchildren brought him endless delight. His face would brighten instantly at the sight of a baby, lighting up “like a Christmas tree,” as his family lovingly recalls.

Don will be remembered for his quiet strength, his unwavering devotion to family and community, and his warm, generous spirit. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

Don is survived by his wife, Maggie Mitchell, son Mike (Chris) Mitchell, and daughters: Marilyn (Robert) Huttes & Mary (Richard) Kubicek; 8 grandchildren: Morgan Huttes, Courtney (Brant) Wichman, Zane (Emily) Huttes, Chelsea (Benjamin) Joekel, Janelle (Clark) Nutter, Renae (Chad) Lammers, Claire (Logan) Pfeiffer, and Amy Mitchell; 9 great-grandchildren: Grace, Jackson, Owen, and Oliver Wichman, Rawley & Myles Huttes, Henry & Halle Joekel, and Noah Nutter; sister Roma (Robert) Rhodes and brother Daryl (Carolyn) Mitchell; sister-in-law Marilyn Biel; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents Glen and Alice Mitchell; brothers Wayne, Lyle, and Harold Mitchell; sister-in-laws Velva, Fran, and Verona Mitchell, and brother-in-law Robert Biel.

Memorials to No Shave Nebraska at noshavenebraska.com (see below) or Sprague Martell Community Center.