Col. Neil Fitzhenry Mitchell

Neil Fitzhenry Mitchell, 86, passed away in The Villages, Florida, on October 12th after a courageous, year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Defying odds and expectations, he continued to live as robustly as possible, fiercely committed to making the most of his time with family and friends. Born in Lewistown, Illinois, Neil was the youngest son of John Mitchell, a house painter, and Mary Mitchell, a homemaker. His goal-setting started early, influenced by his drive to keep up with older siblings Shirley and Jack. After college, Neil chose to dedicate 27 years to serving his country in the United States Marine Corps, retiring with the rank of Colonel. His distinguished military career included two tours of duty in Vietnam, where his valor earned him the Bronze Star. His leadership and commitment to his fellow Marines exemplified the highest traditions of military service. After retiring from the Marines, Neil channeled that same fearless spirit into his second career, establishing a successful tree cutting business in Northern Virginia. True to form, he served as the company's climber, never asking others to do what he wouldn't do himself. Neil's zest for life was boundless. A fitness enthusiast from his early teens, he maintained a lifelong passion for physical challenges. He ran marathons and triathlons, bicycled across the country, and worked as a personal trainer, often joking that he was the world's oldest. In his later years, he enjoyed playing senior softball, almost always as pitcher, in leagues in Virginia and The Villages. He was in the gym lifting weights just a week before his passing. An avid motorcyclist, Neil earned his Iron Butt patch for riding 1,000 miles in 24 hours, and made several cross-country trips, including an epic journey to the Arctic Circle in Alaska. Whether on two wheels or two feet, he was always ready for the next adventure. Neil's generous spirit led him to volunteer work throughout his life, including repairing homes in Appalachia and assisting with Red Cross relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina. He believed in leaving every place better than he found it. In his final months, Neil was deeply touched by the love and kindness shown to him by neighbors, medical personnel, and the wait staff at his favorite local restaurants - expressions of care he spoke about often and treasured. Neil is survived by his wife, Donna Turgeon; his children, Kara Adams and Steve Mitchell; nieces Barbara Matranga, Meridel Bowen, and Rosemary Behrends; and grandchildren Emily and Jack Adams. All were blessed to witness his remarkable courage, determination, and joy for living. Friends and family will celebrate his life "in The Villages way" with an informal driveway party on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 3:00, 2048 Palo Alto Avenue, Lady Lake. If you plan to stay for a bit, bring a lawn chair and BYOB.