On March 22, 2024, Darrell Mitchell went peacefully home to be with his wife in heaven.
Darrell Charles Mitchell was born on March 5, 1932, to Floyd and Agnes (Mangan) Mitchell on a farm south of Dunlap. Darrell was an only child but the apple of his mother’s eyes. Darrell graduated from Ute in 1950. At the time the school was called the Ute Indians. Darrell enjoyed playing baseball; he played in high school and was part of a town baseball team in Dunlap. One summer, he ended up cutting his thumb and his biggest worry was whether or not he would be able to wear his baseball glove or catch a ball.
After high school, Darrell enlisted in the U.S Navy where he spent four years aboard the aircraft carrier, “The Princeton.” During his enlistment, he learned how to be a machinist. One of his proudest accomplishments in his life was the time he spent in the Navy; he shared many wonderful stories with family and friends.
In 1955, Darrell met the love of his life, Joann Hansen, while attending a dance; they were married just one year later on Dec. 8, 1956. The couple made their home on Darrell’s grandmother’s farm in Crawford County, close to Charter Oak. They were blessed with three wonderful children: Brenda, Mike, and Lori. Darrell and Joann’s union lasted 65 beautiful years.
Darrell absolutely loved farming and it was not uncommon for him to load up the family and drive around the countryside looking at the crops. After the drive was over, the whole family would end up at the Ute Dairy Treat and everyone would have footlongs for supper; if you were really good, you might just get some ice cream for dessert.
Darrell is survived by his children: Brenda Newell of Storm Lake, Mike Mitchell of Ute and Lori (Ben) Roberson of Mesa, Ariz; grandchildren: Symone McCright, Kyle Newell, Grace Newell, Cody Roberson, Cole Roberson, Cade Roberson, and Kristina Roberson; great-grandchildren: Azaleia McCreight, Ryland McCreight, Aveliegh Newell, and Adelaide Newell.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Agnes Mitchell; and his wife, Joann Michell.
A tired farmer has gone home, he lived a beautiful life for 92 years.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m., with a Visitation held one-hour prior from 12-1 p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Soldier Lutheran Church of Soldier. Pastor Paul Coen will officiate.
The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Ute, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.
