William R. Mitchell

Bill R. Mitchell, 51, longtime resident of Auburn Street, Springvale died at home surrounded by family and friends, October 19, 2004.The son of William and Ellen (Salmon) Mitchell, Bill was born in Sanford on October 27, 1952. He attended Sanford High School and served in the National Guard for four years. Bill was a member of the American Legion, Springvale Social Club, Wolves Club and the Lafayette Club.Following the death of his father, Phil, Bill assumed operation of Mitchell's Chainsaws and ran the business until 1998 when he took a position at Pratt & Whitney that he held until he fell ill in February.Bill's heart belonged to nature and he was especially fond of feeding chipmunks, gray squirrels and blue jays right out of his hand. An avid deer hunter and fisherman, Bill loved traveling to upstate New York every fall with a group of friends to go salmon fishing. He also enjoyed taking his boat on the Saco River to fish for stripers. In the early spring, Bill would fish on Mousam Lake and Square Pond. Bill will be deeply missed by his friends and family. Survivors include his sister, Judy Knight and her husband Robert of Alfred; his brother, David Mitchell and his wife, Barbara of Hallstead, PA; his sister, Susan Mitchell of Springvale and his sister, Karen Mitchell Pierce and her husband, Barry of Shapleigh. Also, numerous nieces and nephews. At Bill's request, there will be no services.Donations may be made in Bill's memory to The Center for Wildlife, Inc., P.O Box 620, Cape Neddick, ME 03902.