Big Rapids – Kathleen E. “Kay” Mitchell, 80, of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2009, at Altercare of Big Rapids.
 
She was born October 1, 1928, in Morley, the daughter of Roy and Thelma (Priest) Stilson, and graduated from Morley High School in 1945. Kay then earned her degree in education from Central Michigan University, and began her teaching career in Morley.
 
In 1969, she moved to Alexandria, Kentucky, where she taught English for 17 years, until retiring and returning to Big Rapids in 1986. Kay worked with International Students at the Creative Writing Center at Ferris State University, and also worked part time as a proofreader for the Pioneer.
 
In 1968 Kay married Gary Mitchell, who survives. Also surviving are 2 daughters, Susan Allshouse Turner of Canadian Lakes and Lynn (Donald) Turner Selfridge of Big Rapids; 1 son, Scott A. Turner of Palm Harbor, Florida; 1 grandson, Jamison (Jamie) Selfridge of Houghton Lake; 2 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Dora Mitchell of Green Bay, Wisconsin and Marilyn (Stan) Elzinga of Buckley; 1 brother, Gerald (Marlene) Stilson of Cadillac; and her “adopted son”, Mig Mervenne. Kay was preceded in death by sister Jylene Lewis, 2 nephews, Greg and Larry Mitchell, and brother-in-law, James “Stan” Mitchell.
 
Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m., Sunday, May 24, 2009, at the Lakeview Cemetery.  Memorial contributions in Kay’s name may be made for the Mecosta County Commission on Aging or Heartland Home Hospice, and may be left in care of the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at www.mohnkefuneralhome.com.

Tags: Obituaries //