Mitch York

Mitch York
Mitch York was a lovely, creative, unique man who touched many lives and was deeply loved. Mitch died at the age of 55 on October 29, 2016, as he was riding his bike across the St. John's Bridge in Portland, Oregon, and was struck by a reckless driver.
Mitch grew up in Boise, Idaho, with his three older sisters, who played a significant role for him throughout his life with their kindness, love, and support. He was an easy-going, loyal, energetic, and fun-loving child whose artistic and athletic talents were apparent from an early age. By the time he graduated from Capitol High School in 1979, Mitch had found an outlet for his creativity by immersing himself in the first wave of the skateboarding movement and in the art of black-and-white photography and film development, activities he would pursue throughout his life.
Most significant of all during that time, Mitch met his high school classmate Jenni (Mays), who became and remained his beloved life partner. Jenni and Mitch married in 1983 and moved to Portland, Oregon, where Mitch worked as a commercial photographer. To his great joy, son Henry was born in 1988 and daughter Carly in 1990. He was devoted to them. The family moved into the first of a string of fixer uppers, where Mitch honed his considerable skills in home design and construction. He also bought his first road bike and became an ardent cyclist.
The Yorks returned to Boise in 1993, where they remained for the next 15 years. Mitch spent his time raising the children with Jenni, restoring old homes, cycling, and building an increasingly successful freelance photography career, including signing with Getty Images as a stock photographer. The family also embarked on domestic and international trips to explore the world and all it had to offer.
Jenni and Mitch relocated to Auburn, California, in 2008. This was followed by a short stint enjoying city living in San Francisco (where Henry and Carly attended San Francisco State University) before returning to Portland and putting down roots. Mitch combined his impeccable artistic eye and his technical expertise to perform home repairs and restoration for numerous grateful clients. If Mitch was on the job (often accompanied by his adored and adoring dog, Alvin), you could be sure it would be done with great care and style. He also continued to photograph purely for enjoyment, documenting his family, cycling, and travels.
Mitch felt emotions strongly. He loved Jenni, Henry, and Carly with all his heart. As time passed, friendships became increasingly precious to him. He had a great affinity for children and animals; he spoke their language, and they always responded. He was a reader and inquirer who could make you think and a playful goofball who could make you laugh. Mitch's bright blue eyes never aged.
It is said that we can never fully comprehend how much loved ones mean to us until they are gone. Now we know. Mitch's death is an enormous loss, but how lucky we were to have him. Thankfully, his abiding spirit will always be with us, heart and soul.
Mitch is survived by his wife, Jenni, his son, Henry Mitchell, his daughter Carly Ellen; sisters Lauren (Betty) and daughter Hannah; Polly (Mike), and children Travis, Lucas, and Claire; and Allison (Joe) and children Kaylin and Sam.
Mitch will be remembered on June 17 at the Bishops' House, 2420 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, Idaho, at an open house from 1:00 to 4:00 pm (including a brief service at 1:30 pm). All who knew Mitch are welcome.