William James Mitchell was born on December 28, 1926, to Frank and Christine Mitchell on the family farm at Heart Valley, Alberta; the oldest of four children. He passed to his eternal reward at home in Beaverlodge, Alberta on April 12, 2013 at 4o'clock in the afternoon, having reached the age of 86 years. Bill married the love of his life, Shirley Riddell on June 23, 1973 and spent nearly 40 years together with her. They shared their love with several foster children and especially with daughter Velma and granddaughter Cassandra, generously providing home and education as long as they were able. Grandson Jared knows Grandpa by the phone calls they shared. Bill found the Lord in his middle years, and was baptized in Grande Prairie, Alberta in 1976. His faith was very important to him. He loved the farm in the Heart Valley, where they lived until 1983. Bill faced some health issues at that time, and they regretfully sold the home place. He moved his family to Bezanson, where he and the boys spent many enjoyable hours repairing old machinery. He spoke fondly and often about the old 1938 Hart Parr Tractor they restored. In 1991 they moved to Creston, B.C. and spent the next eleven years enjoying the beautiful valley. He was thrilled with the bountiful gardens he could grow there, and specialized in raising cantaloupes and grapes. Hythe, Alberta became their home in 2002, when they decided to move back to the north. Their home has always been open to their many friends. Bill always welcomed visitors with a cheerful grin, and a teasing comment, and loved to have coffee while visiting around the table. If time allowed, the crokinole board might be brought out. Reading was a favorite pastime, and he appreciated a good discussion about what he read, especially if it was farm or garden related. Just one month ago, Bill and Shirley sold their home and moved to Amisk Court in Beaverlodge, Alberta. Even while Bill's health was failing, is concern was Shirley and the family. His dearest wish was for their safety and wellbeing. Those last few days in the hospital he especially wanted Shirley near him, telling her: "I just want to hold your hand." William James Mitchell entered his eternal reward on April 12, 2013 at 4 o'clock in the afternoon in Beaverlodge, AB at the age of 86 years. Bill is predeceased by his parents Frank and Kristine Mitchell, brother Hughie, sisters Kristine and Eva. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 39 years Shirley, daughter Velma, grandchildren Cassandra and Jared. A Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at 11:00 AM at Living Springs Mennonite Church. Pastor Ron Wohlgemuth officiated. Interment followed at the Heart Valley Cemetery, Wanham, AB. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Bill to Living Springs Mennonite Church, Box 530 Hythe, AB T0H 2C0. Very Respectfully Beaverlodge Funeral Service