Obituary of James A. Mitchell

James (Jimmy) A. Mitchell, Sr., age 69, of Old Forge and formerly of Westmoreland, passed away on February 16, 2019. He was born October 15, 1949, in Utica, a son of the late Claude and Winifred Lawrence Mitchell, and graduated from Oriskany Central School where he excelled in all sports and received the Athlete of the Year Award. James was united in marriage to the former Debra Rieben, on June 19, 1971, in St. Paul's Church in Whitesboro. He formerly worked for Buck Construction Inc., Rome Cable Corp. and retired from Westmoreland Central School District in 2011. Jim and Debbie fulfilled their lifelong dream of retiring in the Adirondacks on 4th Lake in Old Forge at their year round camp that they purchased back in 1979. This was where they and their children frequently gathered to spend time together. In the later years, they shared their love of the Adirondacks with their grandchildren. He loved his family with all of his heart. His quick wit, unique sense of humor and love for cooking, especially on the Weber, will be sorely missed. Jim's love of the Adirondack outdoors was evident as shown by his passion for boating in the Mariah, his love of snowmobiling, campfires and many more outdoor activities with his family and friends. James is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; a daughter and son in law, Jolene and Benjamin Kittle; a son, James A. Mitchell, Jr. and Elizabeth Dlugosz; two brothers, Thomas Mitchell and Daniel Mitchell; and grandchildren, Maggie Mitchell and Benjamin Kittle. He was predeceased by a brother, Nelson Mitchell. The Mitchell family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at St. Luke's Hospital. The funeral service will be held Tuesday at 4:00 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street. Burial will be in the spring in Westmoreland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 2 to 4 PM, prior to the funeral service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Old Forge Volunteer Fire Department or the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department. Please offer online tributes at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.