Holden C. Mitchell's Obituary
Holden Charles Mitchell, formerly of Shaker Heights, Ohio, Woodbridge, Connecticut, and Sanibel Island, Florida passed away on March 16, 2020 at the Larson Medical Pavilion at Shell Point Retirement Community in Ft. Myers, Florida. He was born on November 8, 1931 in Shaker Heights, Ohio, the only child of Leonard J. and Beulah A. (Bluim) Mitchell. He attended Boulevard Elementary School and graduated from University School for Boys on June 9, 1950. Summers were spent at various camps including church camp, Wabun on Lake Timagami (Ontario, Canada), and Culver Military Academy (Indiana) Summer Program from which he graduated on August 23, 1949. He went to Washington and Lee University where he joined Phi Delta Gamma fraternity. His education was interrupted when he was drafted into the army and served honorably during the Korean War. He subsequently received a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Management and embarked on a career in institutional food service management which included employment at Saga Foods (serving Ithaca College and Swarthmore College), Yale University, and as Director of Food Service at Griffin Hospital until his retirement.
Holden is survived by his beloved wife, Marjorie H. (Gerber) with whom he shared many adventures for nearly 59 years; his daughter Heather Murphy (Peter); three grandchildren, Elizabeth, Josiah, and Theodore; two nieces Kathryn Doonan (Jay) and Amy Belden (Bill) as well as three great nieces and one great nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Holden led an active life that included serving as an altar boy at St Paul’s Episcopal Church (Cleveland Heights, OH), as well as sailing, joining Mentor Harbor Yacht Club as a junior member where he remained a member for over 50 years. In addition, he was a leader of a Sea Scout group, and volunteered with Junior Achievement, the Rotary, and other organizations. Together with Marjorie, they enjoyed a gourmet dinner group, couples bridge, and hosting special events.
A Graveside Service with burial in the family plot will be performed at Lake View Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106 when travel restrictions have been lifted.
What’s your fondest memory of Holden ?
What’s a lesson you learned from Holden ?
Share a story where Holden 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Holden you’ll never forget.
How did Holden make you smile?