Richard A. "Rick" Mitchell

MITCHELL, RICHARD A. "RICK"

Whitehall, Michigan

Richard A. "Rick" Mitchell, age 46, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Corewell Health – Butterworth in Grand Rapids, MI. He was born on March 24, 1979, in Muskegon to Perry S. Mitchell, Sr. and Ana M. (Barajas) Mitchell, and spent nearly his entire life in the Whitehall community he loved so deeply.

A 1999 graduate of Whitehall High School, Rick was a familiar and beloved presence throughout town. He was a proud member of the White Lake Eagles and someone whose name-and smile-were known by nearly everyone. Born with cerebral palsy, Rick never allowed his physical challenges to define him. Instead, he lived with purpose, humor, and an unwavering determination. He often reminded family and friends not to treat him differently, insisting on living life on his own terms. Rick valued people above all else, and he had a gift for making others feel seen. Whether offering help, sharing a laugh, or simply stopping to say hello, Rick built friendships everywhere he went.

Rick's faith was an important part of his life. He grew up attending St. James Catholic Church in Montague, later worshiped with his mother at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, and after its recent closing, became part of the community at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Rick is survived by his parents, Ana (Larry Leech) Mitchell and Perry (Mayra) Mitchell; his brothers, PJ (Carmen) Mitchell and Daniel (Serena) Mitchell; his sister, Julia Vega; his nephew, PJ Mitchell III and niece, Cara Burkall; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 239 W. Clay Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49440, with Rev. Fr. David J. Sacha presiding.

Visitation will take place from 4–7 PM on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. The Rosary will be prayed at 4:00 PM.

Interment will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery.

To share memories or sign the online guestbook, please visit https://www.sytsemafh.com.