Crysella A. "Cris" Mitchell

Crysella "Cris" Andrea Mitchell was born to the late William and Elizabeth Setterberg on Nov. 23, 1943, in Galveston, Texas.

Cris married her best friend and the love of her life, Stanley Ray Mitchell Ph.D., on June 18, 1966. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1961, enjoying the "sparkles on the waters" of Lake Michigan. For higher education, she graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor's of arts in 1965 and the University of Kentucky in 1974 with a K-12 certification in library science. Her terminal degree was from Dominican University in 2000 with a master's of legal studies, including a concentration in business administration and membership in Beta Phi Mu, the National Honorary Society for Library Science.

Cris taught students from fourth grade through adult education. However, she spent most of her adult life as a librarian, including administration positions.

During high school, Cris played the harp with the local symphony. Because she had played the harp and flute duet from "Carmen," she was invited to play with the Boston Pops when they came to Michigan.

For more than 50 years, boating was a huge part of Cris' life along with her husband while living in Kentucky, Illinois, Tennessee and Florida. Cris and Stan taught boating safety for the Coast Guard Auxiliary in Northern Illinois and, during retirement, participated in activities with the Lake Beresford Yacht Club and the Florida Commodores' Association.

Cris is preceded in death by her wonderful, witty and kind husband, Stan, of more than 56 years. She anticipates gathering with Stan, her kitties, friends and relatives from Galveston to DeLand to enjoy the "sparkles on the waters" of Lake Michigan in the light of the hereafter. There will be a private gathering for disbursement of the ashes in Deland.