Edward "Ed" Mitchell Sr.

1934 - 2023

Mystic - Edward "Ed" Mitchell Sr. of Mystic, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023. Ed was born in New London, April 1, 1934.

He was the son of Joseph and Mary (Rodreigues) Mitchell. He was predeceased by his wife Marge Mitchell; his sister Dorothy Turbak; and brother Joseph Mitchell.

Ed's father passed away when he was only three. His mother raised him as a single mom in New London. Ed attended the Bulkeley School in New London. In 1953, Ed enlisted in the U.S. Marines and was deployed to Korea to fight in the Korean War. In 1955, while stationed in Fort Lauderdale, he met the love of his life Margaret Mitchell. Ed and Marge married Nov. 10, 1956. Marge passed away Oct. 29, 2022. They would have celebrated 66 years prior to her death.

Ed is survived by his five children: Karen Caras, Kim Gouvin (Mike), Kathy Dean (Rob), Todd (Yomaira) and Eddy Jr. He has ten grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ed was employed by Pfizer in the fermentation department for 35 years. After retirement, he drove a Dattco School Bus for special needs children. He would say that this was one of the most rewarding jobs he ever had. He shared a special bond with all the children. His greatest joy was being surrounded by family and friends. Even the neighborhood children referred to him as Papa. He just cared about everyone.

He was proud to be a Marine veteran and was a member of VFW Post 3263. Ed loved to sing and was not shy to sing Karaoke at the VFW on Monday nights. You would see Ed in many of the Mystic parades representing the VFW. Ed was the number-one fan of the UConn Husky women's basketball, Yankees baseball, and Giants football. When the Yankees won a game, he would call a few of us and say, "Go Yankees Win." He was always present with all school and sports activities for his children, grand and great-grandchildren. He looked forward every year for St. Patty's Day to go with his sons and grandkids to Sneekers for corned beef and cabbage. If you were at your job working our Dad/Papa would come by once in a while and surprise us with a grinder or our favorite meal or even a hot tea. That is just how generous his heart was.

When he found out that he was terminally ill, his first concern was to be sure to get all the Christmas shopping done for the kids. He loved life so much. He was the most wonderful, caring, loving person. We were very blessed to have him as our dad. We will miss him dearly. We would like to thank Hospice for the outstanding care they gave our dad during his illness. They made it possible for my dad to be home for his final days as he wished.

His family will receive relatives and friends from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the Mystic Funeral Home located on Route 1 in Mystic. His services and burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, please donate to VFW Mystic Post 3263, 60 Stonington Road, Mystic 06355.