John E. Mitchell, 77, of Washington, Illinois passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, December 1, 2024 in Washington, Illinois.

John was born December 12, 1946 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late Ellis and Rita Larson Mitchell.  He married the love of his life Virginia Elwood in River Forest, Illinois on November 20, 1971.  She survives.

Also surviving are two daughters, Judy (Dave) Nabhan of Washington, Illinois and Cynthia Mitchell of Chicago, Illinois; four grandchildren, Libby, Nora, Sophie, and Clara Nabhan; one sister, Kathleen Mitchell of Appleton, Wisconsin, and two brothers, Patrick (Linda) Mitchell of Reno, Nevada, and Stephen (Leslie) Mitchell of Richfield, Minnesota.

John graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point in 1969 and John Marshall Law School in 1974. He relished practicing law and helping others.

John's family was important to him - he was a dedicated and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  He enjoyed spending time with family, the Green Bay Packers, sailing, grilling, cooking, going to concerts, tinkering around the house, dad jokes, and visiting Wisconsin (also known as "God's Country").  He enjoyed fishing (but not always catching) in northern Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Tennessee.  He was forever dedicated to catching another ever elusive musky.

The family would like to thank VITAS Hospice for their care during his final days.

A Private Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, Illinois. Burial will be at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria, Illinois.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington, Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sophia's Kitchen or St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, Illinois.