February 8, 1921 — April 25, 2005
It is with sadness that we mark the passing of Larry Mitchell after a lengthy illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Alice, his “kids” Dwain (Beth) MacKenzie of Port Alberni, Audrey (Ron) MacMillan of Sardis and Sandra Gilmer of Vancouver. Predeceased by brothers Charlie and Gordon, he is also survived by brothers Jack (Edna) and George and sister-in-law Barbara. He will be missed by his grandkids Ross, Lori (Brooks) and Carol MacKenzie, Collin and Steven (Leanne) MacMillan, great-grandkids Caden, Mitchell and Grady plus many nieces and nephews.
Larry was born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan and moved, with his four brothers and parents to a farm in Atchelitz in 1938 near where the Atchelitz School now stands. Larry joined the RCAF in 1942 and served as a member of the fire brigade until 1945. After taking a variety of jobs Larry went back to work as a firefighter, this time at CFB Chilliwack, where he worked for the next 35 years.
An eclectic collector, Larry could always be found rummaging around the junk yards, second-hand stores, or at the auction and his “boxes of junk” and numerous tools were always put into order in the garage or the “antique museum” in the basement. Later in life his love of farming and tinkering with anything he could lay hands on continued through his active participation in the Chilliwack Threshermen’s Association. He was also known to be quite the practical joker, as many family members will attest.
Strangers, friends, neighbors or relations — Larry was always there to give a hand. He was happiest when working on his engines, creating unique items to donate to charity or anything that kept him busy and productive.
A Celebration of Larry’s life was held on Thursday, April 28th. In lieu of flowers, donations to your own favourite charity would be Larry’s wish.