James Paul Mitchell

James Paul Mitchell, 88, joined the love of his life, Marilyn, January 12, 2019.

Visitation will be at 9 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at Hamilton’s, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, IA.

Jim was born July 15, 1930 to Robert Dale and Elsie Elizabeth (Erickson) Mitchell in Des Moines. He attended Van Meter Schools where he met his future wife, Marilyn Henderson, when she tripped him the first day of school.

Jim passed up a Simpson College basketball scholarship to attend Drake University with Marilyn because he did not want “any city slickers” sweeping her off her feet! Jim and Marilyn married August 27, 1950. After graduation, Jim served as a teacher, coach and principal in the Lenox and Des Moines School Districts. Jim made a lasting impact especially as Principal during desegregation of Perkins and King Schools. While juggling work and family, Jim earned his Master’s in Education from Drake. After retiring, Jim was even called back to serve as Principal of Moulton Elementary.

Jim was an avid sports fan, fisherman and hunter. Each year, he took two fishing trips to Canada, including his last one in September. He was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs. Most importantly, he never missed his children’s sports and activities. Jim was a wonderful, doting grandfather and enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events, taking them on shopping trips and sharing his words of wisdom. Jim’s sense of humor endeared him to everyone.

Although Jim wasn’t in the military, he looked to serve his community in other ways. He had a deep affection for all things patriotic. He was a powerhouse among men, genuine and well-loved.

Jim will be greatly missed by his children, Greg (Donna), Jerry (Rose), and Susan (Randy) Bretag; grandchildren, Jimmy, Molly and Jerry Mitchell, Sara (Jeff) Mitchell, Bart (Sara) Bretag, and Blair (Carl) Theissen; great-grandchildren, Hanna and Jackson Mitchell, Ashley Bretag, Logan Cheatham, and Barrett Bretag, Aubry and Madi Theissen, and Johnny Mitchell; siblings, Bob (Betty) Mitchell and Patty (Frank) Sarcone; and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; his parents; and siblings, Jack Mitchell and Charlene Armstrong.

The family thanks Amy Barth and her outstanding staff for their love and care of Jim at The Villages at Legacy.

Memorial contributions may be directed to John Stoddard Cancer Center, 1415 Woodland Ave.,Ste. E-200, DM, 50309.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHomes.com.

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