Ty Mitchell

Compassionate, loving, dedicated, hardworking - these are just a few of many words that describe Ty Mitchell. He was a shy and unassuming young man who loved sports, music and most of all, his family. Although he was only granted a short time on earth, he filled every day with energy, life and love.

Ty Mitchell was born on July 25, 1969, in Plainwell, Michigan, to David and Karla (Bryan) Mitchell. He was the oldest boy of four children. The year of his birth marked many historical moments in American history: the 747 and Concorde made their maiden flights, Neil Armstrong and his crew lifted off the moon in Apollo 11 and in Bethel, New York, thousands of young people gathered at the Woodstock Music and Art Festival, which became the highpoint of the “hippie era.”

Ty had a pretty normal childhood growing up in the Pine Lake and Doster area. He was a sensitive young boy, who loved animals and the people around him withut asking for much in return. Ty always enjoyed the simple things in life, especially the beautiful outdoors. He loved to go outside as a child and was often found amusing himself with an imaginary baseball game in the backyard. He was quite a character as the commentator giving the play-by-play calls and unfortunately, some of the game balls led to a few broken windows. His formal education was received in the area schools, graduating from Delton Kellogg High School in 1987. A very strong athlete, he excelled in soccer and baseball while in high school. He not only played sports, Ty was also a loyal sports fan of the Detroit Lions, Tigers and Red Wings and enjoyed many games accompanied by friends and family. In spite of his busy sports schedule in high school, Ty also found time to work a variety of jobs - Doster Store, Bicycle Shop in Kalamazoo, picking strawberries when in season and helping out as a farm hand. His taste in music also varied and he especially enjoyed going to concerts with his friends.

After graduating, Ty knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life, and he never faltered in his quest to achieve this goal. His love for nature and its wildlife and the preservation of our environment spurred Ty to pursue a degree in Environmental Biology at Western Michigan University. Sadly, he was only eleven credits short of achieving this goal.

Ty’s employment history continued to vary after high school. From working at Shafer Bakery to miscellaneous jobs of lawn care, janitorial services, UPS and as of recent, working at Pfizer in the packing department. Ty approached each job no matter how minor it was, with motivation and hard work. This was especially true when it came to volunteering at Loaves and Fishes. Ty put his whole heart into this cause, never complaining that he already worked a full day at UPS.

The love for the outdoors provided Ty with some of his favorite pursuits. Many memorable trips were made with family and friends to northern Michigan often times camping, hiking and mountain biking. On their many exploits through nature, Ty was able to share his vast knowledge of plants, trees and wildlife, perhaps steering them clear of a patch of poison ivy.

Ty was not shy when it came to showering his family with affection. He often sent them sentimental cards for no particular reason other than to remind his family that he loved them. Family meant everything to Ty. He cherished the close and loving relationship he had with his sister Tresha and enjoyed spending “guy time” with his brothers, Barry and Jon. His kindhearted and caring disposition made him easy to love and greatly treasured by his family and friends.

The highlight of Ty's life was the birth of his daughter, Allison, four years ago. He was every bit the proud father. Ty's eyes were always lit up when his little girl was around. Along with Allison's mother and Ty's longtime companion, Lori, the three enjoyed the outdoors together especially their trips to the beach.

Ty Mitchell died on Wednesday, April 14, 2004, in Plainwell after a courageous fight with brain cancer. Ty was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dick Mitchell, and aunts, Laurie Holloway and Rebecca Mitchell. His family includes his daughter, Allison, whom he cherished; long time companion, Lori Erk, of Kalamazoo; parents, David and Karla Mitchell of Plainwell; sister, Tresha and Jim Strate of Richland; brothers, Barry Mitchell of Plainwell and Jon Mitchell of Delton; grandmother, Mildred Mitchell, of Plainwell and grandfather, Elliot Bryan, of South Carolina; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Learn more about Ty’s life story, view his life story film and visit with his family and friends in casual attire on Saturday, April 17, from 2-5 p.m. at the Kalamazoo Nature Center - Glen Vista Room on North Westnedge, where there will be a time of sharing from 3-4 p.m. According to Ty’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private burial will take place at a later date. Please visit Ty’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com to read his life story, archive a favorite memory, order flowers online or make a memorial contribution to the Allison Mitchell Trust Fund, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council or to the West Michigan Cancer Center for Brain tumor Research.

Although Ty will be deeply missed, but he leaves behind the memory of his sweet smile, his enthusiasm for life and his deep love for his family. He would want you to always remember to recycle and care for the earth, show your family that you love them, and live each day to the fullest.