Garlan Mitchell

Garlan William Mitchell, 90, passed away November 29, 2025, at his son's house in Cedar City, Utah. He was born on December 17, 1934, in Escalante, Utah to Eldred William and Veda May (Spencer) Mitchell. Garlan was raised in Escalante, Utah and graduated from Escalante High School. He served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Upon his return, he met the love of his life, Ruth Marie Bauer, while she was working as a waitress in Bryce Canyon. They were married in the St. George Temple on July 18, 1959.

Garlan was drafted into the army during the Vietnam War. Upon learning of Garlan's mechanical skills, the army stationed him at Fort Lewis, Washington where he repaired and serviced combat tanks. After receiving an honorable discharge, Garlan and Ruth returned to Cedar City, Utah where Garlan was employed as a mechanic and tow truck driver for Lunt Motor Company. Later, he was hired by the U.S. Forest Service. He retired from this position in 1995. Garlan was known for his mechanical abilities and would often volunteer to help relatives, friends and neighbors with their automotive repairs. As a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, he was ordained a high priest and served as a Counselor in the College Ward Bishopric and in the 7th Ward Elder's Quorum Presidency. Garlan had a great love of the outdoors and instilled this same love in his children as they enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, boating, water skiing, snow skiing, and camping together. One of his favorite camping spots was the family property, "Mitchell Hideaway," at Duck Creek Village where he and Ruth spent most of the summers after he retired. Garlan and Ruth were members of the GWRRA (Gold Wing Road Riders Association) and toured nearly all 50 states on their Gold Wing motorcycle. After Ruth's death, Garlan met and married Maria Elena Corrao (Mary). Together, they served a 6-month mission as tour guides at Cove Fort in Southern Utah.

He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Marie Mitchell, two sons, Robbie Dean Mitchell, and Garlan Troy Mitchell.,14 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldred and Veda, two older brothers Jerald Eldred Mitchell and Theron Orson Mitchell, spouse, Ruth Marie, spouse, Mary, and two sons, Lonnie William Mitchell and Rickie Lee Mitchell.

A viewing will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Southern Utah Mortuary (190 North 300 West Cedar City, Utah). The graveside service will be on December 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Cedar City Cemetery under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary. Online condolences can be sent at www.mortuary.org.

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to Enhabit Home Health in St. George, Utah and to all the nurses and CNA's for their loving and tender care of our father this past year.