Harry Joseph MITCHELL

Harry Mitchell, spent a life aloft as a Professional Flight Engineer for non scheduled airlines flying throughout the world. His dedication and professionalism to his chosen career earned him the highest respect throughout the industry and he was well liked and trusted on any flight deck he occupied. In 2008 he reluctantly stepped away from his F/E duties when American Trans Air closed down. After 24 years of flying for ATA in L-1011s, he was compelled to retire just short of his 80th birthday. During the last three years of his life, he rebuilt classic Ford Rancheros, drove transport for the USO, served as a point of contact for his Aviation Band of Brothers from around the world and shared camaraderie with many. He left this world for the next due to age related causes in the comfort of his own home. His unexpected departure has left a large void in the lives of many as he was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, flight engineer and friend. Born Harold Joseph Mitchell to Henry H. and Clara J. Mitchell, Harry grew up with his younger sister Marilyn (Carnis) in Minneapolis Minnesota. At a young age he joined the Navy and served at Tangiers in North Africa as a flight engineer on a PB4Y2 Privateer. That experience marked the beginning of his flying career. Following his service in the Navy, he resided in Minneapolis and married Dorothy Wiisanen. They had 4 children, Scott, Randall (deceased), Debra (Stacionis) and Darrell. Employed by Northwest Airlines at the time as a flight engineer, he came to Seattle for a job with Boeing in 1967. Observed as a professional airman in every sense of the word, he was in great demand. Flying for a variety of airlines; Standard Airways, Olympic Airways, AirClub International, AeroAmerica, Maverick, Kalitta Air and American Trans Air, as an Instructor and Check Airman on B707, B727 and L-1011s, he took great pride in being a tough task master and setting the standards high. He launched many young men into flying careers and later, several of them would serve as his Captain on the flight deck. At the zenith of his career, he found himself flying those who garnered his highest respect; U.S Military troops. Known for clearly expressing his sentiment in any situation, Mitchs PAs were always thoughtful and from the heart, bidding them farewell, Godspeed and a safe return; In memory of those troops lost during their homeward bound journey on an Arrow Air flight in 1985 which crashed on takeoff at Gander, Newfoundland, every December 12th he provided U.S. flags for their headstones. This is a tradition which his long time flying compatriots vow to continue in his name. He is fondly remembered by his children, especially son Scott, his sister Marilyn, his dearly loved granddaughter Heidi Stacionis, favorite niece Renee Bsharah, nephews Todd and Mike Carnis, dear and long time friend Margie Muntz and many more aviation, local and car collecting friends. To honor Harry Mitchell's life, a Memorial Service will be held: Saturday, January 28, 2012, 1:00pm to 4:00pm at King County International Airport (Boeing Field) Terminal: 7277 Perimeter Road South, Seattle, WA. Please bring pictures and thoughtful reflections of Harry to share with others. A Scholarship Fund has been established in his name at Aviation High School for those students who seek an A and P Mechanic's career. Donations can be sent to: Harry Mitchell Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 1232, Burien, WA 98166.

Celebration of Life

January 28, 2012, 4:00 pm