Paul Donald Mitchell

Paul Donald Mitchell

Sunrise 7/13/1938 - Sunset 3/19/2025

Well, Dad… If you checked the obituaries today, you would find yourself amongst them. He would regularly reply to the question, “How are you today?” with, “Well, I checked the deaths in the paper, and I wasn’t in there, so I must be doing ok!”

Paul opened his eyes for the first time on July 13, 1938, born to Arthur and Stella Mitchell. After a life well-loved and well-lived, he closed his eyes for the last time on March 19, 2025, in Salt Lake City, UT.

Paul was the caboose of seven children, a devoted husband to his wife, Julie Anne, an ever-supportive father to Todd, Paula,

Lisa, and Tonya, and a doting Grandpa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren (and many who weren’t).

In recent years, Paul faced health challenges, but with the unwavering support of his daughter Lisa, he survived them (up until now) with a strength and resilience that earned her a special place in heaven for her unselfish 24/7 care and compassion for the greatest man who ever lived! While his health slowly declined, he never lost his good-natured spirit or sense of humor.

His quiet but sarcastic charm made him a friend to all. Paul’s sense of humor was not just a trait; it was a legacy that created an atmosphere of love and laughter in our home.

Humble, honest, kind, and charitable, he was a man of many talents, he could build everything and fix anything. Countless family members, friends, neighbors, and strangers were blessed by his skills and willingness to lend a hand.

Growing up, Paul enjoyed mischief and moments of joy with his siblings. He loved animals, and animals loved him. Throughout life he had a plethora of pets that were probably glad to see him. He was a yo-yo champion in his youth and had an enduring passion for classic cars. As a member of "The Vagabonds" car club in his younger years, he could share everything you’d want to know about every classic car that cruised the streets.

Paul was a master gardener, dedicating countless hours to perfecting his yard and garden —no weed could survive his watch!

In 1995, Paul retired from Keebler Cookie Company after 40 years of dedicated service. He was affectionately known as "The Cookie Man" to the children in the neighborhood, and always had a cookie to share.

Paul quietly followed the Savior's example in serving others. His commitment to his church was evident through his numerous roles, especially in the scouting program and many Bishoprics.

Aside from Mom, the only thing Dad loved more than his four children were his grandchildren and great grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart and knew they were his favorite.

Together for 64 beautiful years, Paul and Julie had an understanding: if Julie wanted it, Paul always found a way to make it happen!

As the last man standing—literally—Paul is preceded in death by his parents, all six of his siblings and their spouses, his favorite Aunt Annie, and his granddaughter, Jerzey.

He is survived by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Paul will forever be remembered as a man of unwavering love and unbreakable strength—a devoted son, brother, brother in law, son in law, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His absence leaves an indescribable void, and we will miss him dearly! May his memory be eternal.

2 Timothy 4:7 - “I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to the caregivers from Atlas Homecare & Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to our Dad.

In true Paul fashion, he would not want anyone to make a fuss over him, so there will be no funeral. The family will host a viewing and receive visitors Thursday, March 27th from 6-8pm at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple, SLC, UT. Graveside service to honor Paul, Friday, March 28th, 11:00am at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT.

We will hold a celebration of Paul’s life—a life well-lived at a later date.

In his memory, please honor him by having a peanut butter & jelly sandwich, followed by a scoop of ice cream, and of course… a cookie!

Please click the Watch Service button above to watch the recorded service.