John Paul Mitchell

John Paul Mitchell passed away peacefully at his home on January 18th after a three year battle with cancer.

John was born to Charles and Helen Mitchell on November 10, 1942 in Pontiac Michigan. After High School he attended and graduated from Central Michigan University. While at the university, John participated in and graduated from the ROTC program and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army. His service in the US Army would span 39 years, include both active duty and the Army Reserve and would take him across the nation and around the world. After leaving active duty he worked for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Utah for 29 years until his retirement in 2004.  

He married Bonnie Kathleen Wright November 2, 1967 in the Salt Lake City Temple. They were married 51 years, had four children and eleven grandchildren. John served in numerous Church and community roles, but his favorites were the time he spent as Cub Scout Leader, Boy Scout Leader, and family history consultant. John enjoyed outdoor activities including tennis, pickle ball, hiking and camping.  Among his favorite actives were daily walks and gardening. After retirement John took his love of genealogy to the next level and became a certified genealogist.  During this time, he was able to expand his family history and uncover details previously unknown to his own immediate and extended family.  

John endeared himself to all that knew him through his integrity, hard work, compassion, consideration, and responsibility. He was thorough and well organized. His children remember his willingness to listen, and his selfless acts of service.

John is survived by his wife Bonnie; his children: Kenyon (Misti), Kira (Matt) Hansen, Sloan (Amy); and his brother Don (Marilyn). Grandchildren: McKenzi, Kaleb, Kayson, Maegan, Macelyn, Nathan, Abigail, Cole, Piper and Sophie.

Preceded in death by his parents; Charles and Helen; his daughter Emily; and his granddaughter Makelle.

Funeral services will be held Friday January 25th, 11:00 a.m. at the Country Crossing LDS Stake Center, located at 11122 Black Hawk Drive, South Jordan, Utah, where family and friends may attend a viewing on Thursday, January 24th, between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m., or prior to the funeral from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. Burial will be at the Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, 17111 South 1700 W, Bluffdale, UT 84065. 

The Mitchell family extends our deepest thanks and gratitude to the members of the Country Crossing Eighth Ward, friends, neighbors, and the staff at both the Huntsman Cancer Hospital and Huntsman at Home program.  

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

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