James Edward Mitchell

Jim Mitchell was born at St. Anthony's hospital in Denver, the youngest of 3 children to Jim and Florence Mitchell. Known as Jimmie throughout his youth he graduated from Denver East High School in 1949. For the next year he attended the University of Northern Colorado and worked as an auto mechanic's helper before voluntarily enlisting with best friend Alan Thulson in the US Navy during the early stages of the Korean war. Jim and Alan attended the same boot camp in San Diego that began on Sept. 11, 1950. Because of Jim's mechanical aptitude and skills he was then trained as an Aviation Machinists Mate after boot camp and assigned to Patrol Squadron Nine out of Whidbey Island WA. He was a 'plankowner' for Patrol Squadron Nine'""in other words he was a member of the squadron when it was commissioned. After a few months the squadron's home base was moved to Alameda, California. Thru more training Jim earned his wings as an Air crewman. Over the next few years he flew numerous reconnaissance missions over enemy lines in Korea, China and Russia. He earned 3 stars on his wings'""signifying that he was shot at on land, sea and air. During his navy career his visited several places including Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Hawaii and Alaska. As the Korean War was drawing down Jim was honorably discharged in June 1954. During his navy career Jim was awarded 2 Navy Air medals, National Defense Medal, Korean National Medal and the United Nations Medal. Jim returned to his hometown of Denver and began a career as a Draftsman/Structural Engineer which involved the analysis, design, planning and research of dams, bridges etc. He was employed first with the federal government and then with several companies including: Engineering Consultants Inc. (ECI), United Engineers and Constructors, Stearns Rogers and Raytheon. Despite not having a degree the majority of Jim's work was as a 'checker' of other employees works (including that of employees with degrees). Jim retired from Raytheon in 1992. Personal life - Jim met Genevieve (Gen) Newman in 1954 and they were married on June 30, 1956. They first lived in Denver before moving to Lakewood. Jim and Gen had 2 sons (Randall b. 1960) and Ronald (b. 1962). Jim coached youth soccer for a few years in the 1970's. He was an outstanding, innovative and well-liked coach: He implemented an unusual 5-2-1-2 formation and sometimes had his players practice dribbling and kicking tennis balls to improve their skills. His teams won the vast majority of their games and his players always had fun. Jim's hobbies throughout his life included fly tying and fishing, skiing and golf. Above all else he was just a nice guy and if he liked you he would likely tease you in some way and sometimes have a nickname for you. He would sometimes call his Mom 'Red' (due to her red hair) or 'Flo'. He particularly liked to tease his 2 grandchildren (Rob and Beth'""born to Randy and his wife Sandi) when they were visiting Colorado. His memory remains in our hearts. Forever loved, forever missed, always remembered, and never forgotten. Donations are suggested to the Denver Dumb Friends League or any animal charity of choice. Please share memories of Jim and condolences with his family by selecting the ""Sign Guestbook"" tab below.