Ronald Mitzel, age 85, died Sunday, Dec. 24, at his home on Lake Sylvia, Annandale, surrounded by his loving family.
He grew up in Minneapolis and lived on Lake Sylvia for many years.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary; children Ann (Bob), Joseph; grandchildren Catherine (Jamison) Luke (Ashley), Mikaela, Bjorn and Hans; great grandchildren Levi, Emilia and Ada; brother Dennis; brother-in-law Rob; and sister-in-law Sarah, who shortly after Ron’s death arranged a brief, beautiful and cherished memorial tribute to Ron. A very special thank you to her for her thoughtfulness in giving our family a deeply treasured memory. Ron is also survived by many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Pat Knickerbocker, brother Tom Mitzel.
Ron served in the Navy Reserve for over eight years. He enjoyed a career of 38 years at Honeywell. He was an early member of the Torquers car club in Minneapolis, taking great pride in his customized “55 Chevy.” He volunteered for the Special Olympics. He was an avid reader. He loved traveling with Mary and family members. He shared in the excitement, misery and the feeling of great accomplishment of many marathons completed by his family members. He treasured his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He most treasured going to his grandchildren’s school sporting and theater activities.
He loved Lake Sylvia. Growing up he spent many weekends and vacations at the Mitzel cabin on the east lake. He and Mary bought a home on the west lake in 1973, raised their family there and now have grandchildren and great grandchildren loving and enjoying the beautiful lake.
He will be missed greatly. He was a much loved man.
A celebration of life will be held this summer.