Jim Mitchell

On what would have been Jim Mitchell's 92nd birthday, I am continually inspired by the way he lived life to the fullest. When the time came that the progression of Parkinson's brought his earthly life to its conclusion, he accepted it with grace and continued to give love and laughs to everyone he cared about right up to his last days. I miss him every day, but our love lives on.

I miss his humor, story telling and conversations about various topics, including sports. We will always remember you.

My Olivet hero, Coach, and teammate at Olivet Nazarene University, 1953-55. Jim was an outstanding softball pitcher and a great basketball player. And, a great friend.

New families at church were struck by Jim´s similarity to Abraham Lincoln. What they didn´t see was his ability to tell a great story, preach an engaging sermon and his generosity and compassion. He set an example for us on how to live a meaningful life.

"Thinking of You, Jim" You were on my mind just the other day. That´s happened a good many times before. So now, I send a thought or two your way. With a prayer, some good wishes, and much more. There´re many other folks who think of you, In much the same way as I do right now. I´m far from the only one, that´s quite true. Through wisdom and humor, you´ve shown us how... To laugh...to joke...without being unkind. That´s been the gift you gave to all of us. So, it´s no wonder...

Jim was a remarkable person. It was fitting that he portrayed Lincoln, another man of integrity. Jim did a lot of good deeds without letting other people know. His kindness touched many people.

I had the privilege of spending the past decade with the love of my life, who made me laugh nearly every day. He was a man of great wit and charm, but mostly he lived life full of love for family, friends and humankind. I feel blessed to have shared life with him. "Mitch, I love you forever."