Freddie E. Mitchell, a proud U.S. Navy veteran of Coloma, passed away on Sunday July 24, 2022 at the age of 81. Fred was the son of Lorene & Roy Mitchell, born in Leachville, AR on December 5, 1940, grew up in St. Louis, MO. After serving as a Damage Controlman aboard the USS Bennington during the Vietnam War, he moved to Berrien County where he spent the remainder of his life, before being called to the Lord after a long battle with cancer.
Fred spent several years traveling the U.S. as a semi driver. He enjoyed showing horses with his wife and granddaughter, as well as camping with friends and family in his later years. He loved animals and nature, especially the Grand Canyon. Most of all he loved his family, and instilled good values in his children and grandchildren that have served them well. He was a very compassionate and humorous man who will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Fred is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Darlene; daughter Tammy (Eddie) Morris, son Tim (Karee) Ishmael, son in law Andy Haines & daughter in law Sherry Ishmael. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, Amber (Christopher) Blaine, Eric (Meg) Reeves, Stephanie Wright, Andy & Brittany Haines, Lauren & Rachel Morris & Chance Ishmael; along with 11 great grandchildren including Gabriel, Cadence, Erica, Emily, Jacob, Brianna, Miranda, Alaina, Trenton, Chloe & Connor.
He is preceded in death by his middle daughter, Trina Haines, his parents, Lorene & Roy Mitchell, and his sister, Diana Haskins.
Visitation will take place at the Hutchins Funeral Home located at 209 S Main St. in Watervliet on Thursday July 28 from 6pm – 8pm. A graveside service will be held at Riverview Cemetery on Friday, July 29 at 12 pm, followed by a luncheon at Riverview Park, in the Woodbine Lodge.
In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Fred’s name to the VFW. You are invited to leave a message of comfort for Fred’s family.
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