January 31st 1942-April 30th 2017

James L. Mitchell, Jr. 75, of Altoona peacefully passed away on April 30, 2017 after managing a long-term illness. 

 He was known as Jim, Jimmy or Mitch to those who know knew him well.  He was extraordinarily passionate about fishing and hunting, was a man of traditional family values, loved the New England Patriots, and served in the US Army for six years.  He loved and often repeated the phrase “the best laid plans of mice and men often go astray,” which was based on a Scottish poem.  Although his intention was to continue fishing and hunting in the bountiful beauty of central PA, God had other plans for him. 

 The memorial service will be Friday May 5th, 11 a.m. at Blair Memorial Cemetery, Bellwood and thereafter there will be a reception from 12:30 – 2 pm for friends and family at Park Hills Country Club in Altoona, PA. 

Jim’s wife Connie passed away in October 2014.  He is survived by: biological children Monica, James L. III and Beth Ann; son-in-law Olivier and granddaughter Marla; step-children Lisa and Scott Durbin & Family and Laurie Sobak & family; Jeanne DeGennaro; and special thanks and appreciation to Joe Adams, Tim Wilk and Denise and Janet for all their support as committed friends and caregivers.        

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 5, 2017, at Blair Memorial Park, Bellwood with Pastor Marcus Mills officiating. Friends will be received from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Friday, at Park Hills Country Club, Altoona. Arrangements are by Myers-Somers Funeral Home Inc., 501 Sixth Ave., Altoona.