Robert Joseph Mitchell

Robert Joseph Mitchell, "BJ," age 43, of Chesapeake, Va. and formerly of Old Forge, died unexpectedly Sunday at his home. The love of his life is Jillian Sopp, with whom he shared 18 years.

Born in Scranton, son of Thomas Edward Mitchell, of Old Forge, and Ruth Ann Dugan Kollonige and husband, George, of Old Forge, he was a 1999 graduate of Old Forge High School. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a corporal prior to his honorable discharge. BJ was employed as a mechanic for Waste Management in Chesapeake, Va.

To know BJ was to Love BJ. He was untouchable as a father and devoted to his three beautiful children, whom he adored and cherished with all his heart. He truly was the guy who'd give you the shirt off his back. He took immense pride in his family, and of course his canine companion "LULU" who would always be by his side. He was a die-hard Steelers fan. His love for life was shown through all the countless memories/pictures he would share. He enjoyed any adventure life had in store for him, but most of all BJ loved being surrounded by his family and friends (especially Johnny Tufts who he adored and his Old Forge brothers). Whether it was our infamous Sunday Fundays, camping trips or just going down the beach, he lived life to the fullest. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Also surviving are his children, Gavin Thomas Mitchell, Addison Veronica Mitchell and Peyton Elizabeth Mitchell, all of Chesapeake, Va.; his siblings, Jennifer Fuller (and children, Morgan and Karsen), of Old Forge; Christopher Mitchell, of Larksville; and Laura Burke and husband, Patrick (and children, Logan and Keegan), of Meshoppen; Jillian's parents, Andy and Janice Sopp, of Taylor; Jillian's sister, Melissa Moore and husband, Craig, of Malvern; and aunts, uncles, cousins, and additional nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Mitchell.

A public viewing for BJ will be held Monday from 3 to 6 p.m. in Ferri & Gillette Funeral Services LLC, 522 Fallon St., Old Forge, after which a Celebration of Life will take place at 6 p.m. Military honors will also be accorded. Interment will be private.

To leave an online condolence, visit the funeral home website or Facebook page.