Merlin J. Mitchell

Merlin “Mitch” J. Mitchell 1933 – 2024

Merlin was born July 31, 1933, in Murray, Utah to parents Iva James Mitchell and Velma Brown Mitchell Christensen, and passed away on October 28, 2024, in Kaysville, Utah. During his youth Merlin lived in Mesa Arizona and later in the Sacramento area of California. Merlin was always tough and hardworking and persevered through many challenges. After graduating high school, he was awarded a full ride baseball scholarship to USC but declined it and joined the military to serve his country during the Korean War. Merlin served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1957. During his service, he was wounded and eligible for the Purple Heart. Always humble, Merlin did not file to claim the award which he so rightly deserved. Merlin worked for EIMCO in Salt Lake City for many years. After his retirement from EIMCO he began working as professional interior/exterior house painter. He was well known for the quality of his work, and no one could cut a line of high gloss paint onto your trim and baseboards like he could. 

In 1974, Merlin met Jacoba Hemphill, who would become his longtime companion. Merlin loved music, dancing and travel. Together with Jacoba they spent many years enjoying the Dutch dances and numerous travel adventures, including several cruises and trips to Europe. Merlin was a beloved member of Jacoba’s family and was always there to support her and her family whatever the need.

Merlin was preceded in death by Jacoba and brothers Bill Mitchell and Neil Mitchell. He is survived by sister Carolee Hamilton, daughter Pam (Steve) Cook and son Shawn Mitchell along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Visitation from 1:00 – 1:45 p.m. with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. Saturday November 2, 2024, at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 N. Main, Farmington Utah. Interment will be at the Kaysville City Cemetery.

The funeral service will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page (click here) and on this obituary page below, where it will appear 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the service.