Patrick Silas Mitchell

Patrick Silas Mitchell, age 74, of Litchfield, MN, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at J.A. Wedum Residential Hospice in Brooklyn Park, MN, surrounded by family. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Church of Saint Philip in Litchfield, MN, at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held at Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM, with a prayer service at 6:00 PM. The visitation will continue one hour prior to mass. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Litchfield, MN.

Patrick "Pat" Silas Mitchell was born June 22, 1951, in Litchfield to Raymond P. and Dorothy (Gootee) Mitchell. He was baptized on July 15, 1951at the Church of St. Philips in Litchfield. He spent his early years on the family farm in Swede Grove Township before moving to Litchfield in 1961, where he attended Litchfield Senior High School.

On July 8, 1969, Pat enlisted in the United States Army. He served honorably during the Vietnam War as a member of the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne). During his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Parachutist Badge. Pat was honorably discharged on January 31, 1972. Pat carried his strong work ethic into civilian life, first as a welder and later as a Journeyman electrician. A devoted member of IBEW Union, he retired in February 2009, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and integrity.

February 10, 1973, Pat and Dianne (Borchardt) Mitchell were united in Marriage. Throughout their 52 years of marriage, Pat and Dianne embraced summers filled with camping, fishing, and towing the kids behind the boat. Their shared love for travel led to unforgettable adventures, including a New England cruise and a remarkable journey to Cuba. Pat treasured the camaraderie of his time with the Litchfield Jaycees, and in later years, he found solace in his garage with his loyal companion, his dog Guinness. Together, they enjoyed western movies, watching squirrels in the yard, and savoring sweet treats. Always ready with an opinion and a story, Pat had a way of making sure his side was heard—because, in his eyes, he was always right.

Pat is survived by his loving wife, Dianne; his children, Jeremy (Carolina) Mitchell of Virginia Beach, Virgina, Colonel, United States Army; Stephanie Mitchell of Champlin, Minnesota; and William Mitchell of Maple Grove, Minnesota; and his grandson, Raylan Mitchell of Virginia Beach, Virginia. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Mies of Buffalo, Minnesota, and Cecelia Dickinson of St. Cloud, Minnesota; brothers-in-law, Charles Stenger of St. Cloud, Minnesota, Larry Fetkenhauer of Surprise, Arizona, Darrel (Carol) Borchardt of Winthrop, Minnesota, and Lyall (Carol) Borchardt of Buffalo, Minnesota; sister-in-law, Karen Burke of Tyler, Texas, and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Dorothy Mitchell; brothers, Michael and John Mitchell; sister, Susan Stenger; brother-in-law, Cecil Mies; sister-in-law, Phyllis Borchardt; and nephew, Michael Burke.