Dr. Mike Mitchel, DVM, 65, of Plant City, died July 25, 2015.
He was raised, along with his sister Caren Mitchel, by his parents, Mark and Betty Mitchel, in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. In 1968, Dr. Mitchel graduated from Fair Lawn High School, where he was a star golfer. Next, he attended the University of Miami, where he met his best friend and lifelong companion in the adventures of life, Sue McCarthy Mitchel.
Dr. Mitchel served in the U.S. Air Force, then attended the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, where at graduation he earned the outstanding surgeon award. He opened Suncoast Veterinary Clinic in 1981 in Valrico, and later Mobile Pet Medic serving clients in east Hillsborough County and west Polk County. During his 40 year career in veterinary medicine, Dr. Mitchel cared for and comforted many cats and dogs. Throughout his career, Dr. Mitchel was much respected by his clients and employees for his compassion, generosity, the quality of care he provided to his patients and his high ethics.
He was both a scientist and an artisan. He loved supporting his beloved daughter, Sarah Rae Mitchel, and Durant High School thespians by crafting props and scenery for their theatrical events. He was renowned in Plant City for his Halloween and Christmas yard displays, which included many handcrafted items that attracted thousands of viewers. Additionally, during his later years, he enjoyed singing at nursing homes and charity events. He also loved boating on his Grand Banks trawlers, anchoring out and rafting with friends for family vacations.
Recently retired, Dr. Mitchel and his wife were able to fulfill their dreams of cruising to Norway, Alaska and the Panama Canal, and camping in Maine.
Dr. Mitchel will be sorely missed by his family, his neighborhood and in his profession. Donations may be made in Dr. Mike Mitchel’s memory to Best Friends Animal Society.
Online condolences may be made to HopewellFuneral.com.