Ernest Mitchell

MITCHELL, Ernest William “Bill” – Peacefully, with family by his side, at Extendicare London, on Monday, May 8, in his 86th year. Beloved and devoted husband of the late Marjorie Priscilla Mitchell (née Atkinson) for 57 years. Loving father of Stephen and Peter. Adored grandfather of Ashley, Hope, Lucy, and Hannah. Treasured brother of Rita Mitchell.

Born in Hastings, Sussex, UK, our dearest Bill arrived in Canada after WWII and came of age in tobacco country – Aylmer, Ontario. At age seventeen he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy, eventually finding a specialty in signals. He served on the minesweeper HMCS Thunder, the destroyer Sioux, the aircraft carrier Magnificent, and saw deployment during the Suez Crisis of 1956. For that, he received special United Nations recognition, along with other serving Canadians, for their contribution as Peacekeepers during this delicate Cold War flashpoint.  During his time on-base in Shelburne, Nova Scotia, the young sailor met local girl Marjorie Atkinson and, after enhancing his education in Boston, they wed and began growing their family. After serving on the Shelburne Police force and earning commendation, a move to London, Ontario started Bill’s long and successful career in sales. His raucous sense of humour and joy at giving an encouraging word, especially to his sons and grandkids, were obvious to friends and family alike. Bill’s natural energy and sense of adventure were the spark for many unforgettable family travels both near and far, whether by sailboat, trailer, plane, or family station wagon. In retirement and semi-retirement, Bill found joy in part-time teaching, gardening, community involvement, and of course, quieter family times.

A graveside service and burial have taken place at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, 303 Riverside Drive, London, ON, where he has now joined his beloved Marjorie in eternity.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Bill are asked to consider a donation to the Salvation Army. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.westviewfuneralchapel.com.