John Harry Mitchell "Mad Dog"
Late of Warners Bay
Aged 63 Years
Passed away unexpectedly on 14th December, 2007.
Dearly loved husband of JOHANNE. Wonderful father of DOMINIQUE, GINA, SHELLEY, ANGELA, CHRISTIAN and MOSES. Father-in-law of WAYNE, BRIAN and SHANNON.
Adored dada to Darcie,Brooke, Molly, Phoebe, Jack, Ruby, Mia, Noah, Maya, Isaiah Grampa John to Lily, Isabelle, Ethan, Matilda
Brother of FRAN, SUE and ROBERT.
Precious memories of his love, laughter and happiness we will keep forever. He showed us how to live life.
Family and Friends were invited to attend JOHN`s Funeral Service and celebration of life held at Boolaroo Catholic Church on Thursday 20th December 2007 commencing at 11.30am
A cremation service was held at Macquarie Memorial Park after the church service with family and close friends attending.
The Strata Management of 339 Hillsborough Rd Warners Bay respectfully advise our members of the untimely death of JOHN MITCHELL , fellow owner and committee member.
Charlie Cameron
(Hunter Strata Management)
MACQUARIE SCORPIONS RLFC
All members and supporters are advised of the passing of JOHN MITCHELL , Macquarie Scorpions Number One Supporter and former long serving player. All members and supporters are advised that the Funeral for JOHN was held at Boolaroo Catholic Church, Main Road, Boolaroo , THURSDAY 20th December 2007
S. Woodbridge (Sec)
My First Christmas in Heaven
I see the countless Christmas trees
Around the world below
with tiny lights like Heaven stars,
Shining from the ground
The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear,
For I am spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year.
I hear the many Christmas songs, that people hold so dear
But the sounds of music can`t compare
With the Christmas Choir up Here.
I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring
For it is beyond description, to hear the Angels sing.
I know how much you miss me,
I see the pain inside your heart,
But I am not so far away, we really aren`t apart.
So be happy for me dear ones, you know I hold you dear
And be glad I am spending Christmas
with Jesus Christ this year.
I send you a special gift
From my Heavenly home above
I send you each a memory of my undying love.
After all "Love" is the gift more precious than gold,
It always was most important,
In stories that Jesus told.
Please love and keep each other,
As my Father said to do,
For I count the blessings He has for each of you.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I am spending Christmas,
with Jesus Christ this year.
Good bye John, thank you for all the friendship you bought us.
Everytime we will turn on a light you will be in our hearts.
Jon & Edith Byrne
goodbye dear freind
laraine garry
Most people here today were touched by Dad, literally. A daughter a son, brother or sister a wife or grandchild, a cousin, niece or nephew, a friend or acquaintance. Whether it was his favourite tongue in your ear, or his famous head lock. Not everyone who knew Dad saw eye to eye with him, but they all respected him for the way he lived his life.
We will remember him for his greatest and proudest role, our father, he was so proud of his family. Christmas time we would all go to Dada and Nanna Jo’s for Breakfast, he was at his happiest when we were all together, you could see his joy and content, like a Cat that caught the Canary, he would sit back and enjoy all his Children together and his grandchildren jumping on him and running a muck.
Growing up with Dad was an adventure, some of the mischief he would find was endless. I hope we can raise our children with such love and devotion as he did, Dad had never ending love for his family, and as we grew at a rapid rate, so did his heart, he always had time for us, no matter how busy he was, if we needed him he was always there with open arms, a “Hi Darlin” and a big bear hug that mind you were sometimes so tight that you couldn‘t breath, but I would give anything to have just one more. He will always live on in our memories, through, us and his very cherished Grandchildren, We will miss him with such great heartache but remember him with such great joy.
I Love you Daddy and I miss you so much my heart hurts.
Your proud Daughter Shelley
Who else but our Dad?
Our Dad didn’t just embrace life.
He picked it up by the scruff of the neck, shook it around, and squeezed out every last opportunity to experience it all.
He always loved to work, play, tease and taunt. He always loved to laugh. He loved to read books, usually having three on the go at once.
In his later years, he softened and found the beauty of flowers and Jo’s garden. He even began to enjoy drinking cappuccinos and visiting art galleries. Who’d have thought?
Yes, he was a good son, brother, husband, friend, and sportsman. Yes, he was a wonderful father and grandfather.
But our Dad, oh, wasn’t he a funny bugger.
Who else, but our Dad, could transform themselves from a first grade thug of a footballer to a representative netball coach, badged umpire and player.
Everybody at netball knew Mr Mitchell by his akubra hat, his booming voice and his unorthodox, football style coaching methods.
Who else but our Dad could tell a very unfunny joke, get to the punchline, only to remember he had missed something, then go back, re-tell the joke stuff up the punchline, and still be rewarded with raucous laughter from anybody within earshot.
Who else but our Dad would make himself a cup of tea, as if the tea leaves were instant coffee, then use his teeth as a strainer as he drank.
Who else but our Dad would surprise his daughters each Christmas with presents, I’m sure he wanted for himself, such as scalectrics car sets, surf skis or a pool table.
Who else but our Dad would make one piece of chewing gum last a week, and think that was a good thing.
Who else but our Dad could command the attention of all 6 children in any public place at any time with his special John Mitchell whistle.
We won’t hear that whistle again. We won’t hear him laugh. We won’t see him smile or hear his “Hello Darlin” on the other end of the phone.
But we will never forget our Dad. He was so special to us. We will never stop loving you. Through us Dad, your memory will live on.
Gina Mitchell
Our Dad, Our friend, Our rock, Our hero.
Dad achieved so much in his life that was unexpectedly cut short. We are so sad he has passed away and he won’t be with us anymore, but we take comfort in the fact that he lived his life to the fullest. We will never see him get old. We will remember him in all his glory as the happy and fun loving father he was.
To the world he was one, but to us he was the world.
I love you Dad & miss you so very much,
Your baby girl, Angela xo
He’s Only Gone On
At last his gallant soul took flight,
Into the land where there is no night
His name is carved in our hearts to stay,
As we think of the things he used to say.
So he is not dead, he’s only gone on,
Into a brighter, more wonderful dawn.
For men like him were not born to die,
But, like the sun that shines in the sky,
They warm the earth and the hearts of men,
And in happy remembrance they live again.
So while he sleeps and his voice is still,
His spirit goes on and always will.
EULOGY OF JOHN HARRY MITCHELL
Dad was born at Sister Hawkins Hospital, Speers Point on the 9th June 1944 to parents Olga & John Victor. Their third child and first son. Older sisters Fran and Sue adored him and younger brother Robert arrived soon after.
They lived at Palm Beach, Warriewood, and Commercial Hotel Boolaroo before settling at 308 The Esplanade, Speers Point.
Dad attended junior school at St Josephs Catholic School Boolaroo and High School at Marist Brothers Hamilton.
He started his working career with Brother in law Kevin in his antenna business. His father John Victor then came out of retirement to apprentice Dad as an electrician. He briefly worked in Teralba quarry before commencing work in the coal mines, which included Chain Valley, Wyee, Redhead and Gretley until made redundant in 2000. Simultaneously he was running his own electrical contracting business, which he continued to build with Johanne after retiring from the pits.
Dad was an avid sportsman enjoying playing Rugby Union for Boolaroo in his younger years and excelling at Rugby League for Macquarie United, Kurri Kurri and later as a player/coach for Southern Lakes Dora Creek Swampies. He was a well known player and commanded both fear and respect on the football field. Not surprisingly his career included 13 send offs and countless judicial appearances.
Dad enjoyed his cricket and his highlight was taking a hat trick. He proudly displayed his trophy by the bed for many years. Even more he enjoyed Friday pub night with the cricket boys right up until last week. He also dabbled in Baseball and later in life became involved in his daughters Netball pursuits coaching, umpiring and even playing. When the boys came along he was involved in their cricket and basketball activities.
Dad met Diane in 1963. They were very young but married five years later in 1968. I was born in 1970. Unfortunately Diane passed away in late 1970 and Dad’s sister Fran helped Dad raise me until he met Christine.
A strapping, handsome young footballer could not be resisted.
After a whirlwind romance Dad and Chris were married in 1971 and Chris became my mum.
Dad and Mum wasted no time and soon a huge Mitchell clan were in the making, with Gina arriving in 1972, Shelley 1973, Angela 1977, Christian 1981. Surprising most people, they then adopted Moses from Brazil in 1990, completing their family.
Life was hectic with 6 kids, 2 jobs, sport and family life. Holidays every year and lots of fun times with friends and relatives.
After separating in 1992, Dad began the next phase of his life. A difficult phase which was brightened by the birth of his first grandchild, Darcie, in 1993.
Around this time Dad explored the world and welcomed the new challenges he faced.
In 1994 Dad met Johanne and found his soul mate.
The grandchildren started to flow with Brooke in 96 and then Molly, Noah and Jack in 2004. In 2006 Ruby, Maya, Mia and Phoebe arrived, and then Isaiah in 2007.
Dad mellowed considerably in Johanne’s company and they built a life together. Dad became Grampa John to Johanne’s grandchildren Lilly, Ethan, Belle and Tilly. Dad and Jo married in 2005 and continued to follow their dreams.
From all my heart, love you always Dad, Dominique
Merry Christmas Dad, we will miss you at breakfast this year and every Christmas morning for the rest of our lives. The boys will do their best to cook on your BBQ, but it won`t be the same without your funny banter whilst you cook.
We love you Dad, and Dadda.
Shelley, Brian, Darcie, Brooke, Molly and Phoebe.
25/12/2007
Still so surreal. What a bloke. One of the good guys.
They don’t make them like Mad Dog MITCHELL anymore. An absolute pleasure to have known you mate.
Rest in peace.
Stephen
Hi Dad, Christmas went well, it definitely wasn`t the same without you physically there cooking the BBQ but Shannon did the job, New Year went well also, the girls ate lots of fairy floss and the fireworks went for a long time and where really pretty. We are all pulling together and are doing OK your memory is with us every minute of every day.
Love Dom xoxo
DEAR JOHN,
IN MEMORY OF THE MAN WHO ALWAYS CAME TO ‘THE RESCUE ‘AND FOUND A WAY TO “SOLVE” THE PROBLEM WITH A SMILE
WITH THE GREATEST OF APPRECIATION FOR YOUR DEDICATION TO THE SERVICE OF OTHERS
IN LOVING MEMORY
JULIE - STREET PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Hi Dad,
Miss You, Thinking about you, Love You
Wish you were here
Love Dom
10/3/2008
To Dad,
Gina and Ange went to Kokoda, I am proud of them when looking at this photo I am sure you would be too. Love Dom
29/4/2008
Good morning Daddy, today is your first Birthday that your not here for and I miss you very much. I miss you every day, today I know I would have seen you and given you a cuddle and kiss. But I know that you are happy where you are and I’m sure you will be having a great time. I wish you were here but I know you can’t be.
Happy Birthday Daddy love from your proud daughter Shelley
p.s the girls Darcie, Brooke, Molly and Phoebe are making you a cake today to sing happy birthday to their Dada. We all miss you!!
9/6/2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD
Best wishes from everyone.
I hope you are having a lovely day with your new and old friends.
Wish you all the best, you are in my memories everyday.
All my love Dom
9/6/44
Dear Dad,
Happy Wedding Anniversary 16th July
Love Dom, Wayne, Mia and all the family
16/7/2008
Hey Dad,
Netball Grand Final time again Ange and I are playing Saturday will let you know how we go.
Love Dom
20/8/2008
A Dad is a person
Who is loving and kind, And often he knows
What you have on your mind.
He’s someone who listens, Suggests, and defends.
A dad can be one Of your very best friends!
He’s proud of your triumphs, But when things go wrong,
A dad can be patient And helpful and strong.In all that you do,
A dad’s love plays a part. There’s always a place for him
Deep in your heart. And each year that passes,
You’re even more glad, More grateful and proud Just to call him your dad!
Thankyou, Dad....
For listening and caring,
For giving and sharing,
But, especially, for just being you!
Happy Father’s Day.
Love you, Angie xx
Oh well another Grand Final over with and we lost !
Never mind.
Chat soon love Dom
Hi Dad,
How are things going?
The house is nearing the end can`t say it was smooth sailing but it also hasn`t been too rough of a ride.
Everyone is well. We got a new car a nice blue XR6, you would Love it and it goes fast too.
Thinking about you every day and miss you terribly.
Love you always Dom xoxoxo
30/10/2008
Hi Dad, sorry it has taken me so long to write, but I have been busy. You have another little princess to love, her name is Violet Elizabeth, she is 8 weeks old today and you would have loved her, just like you loved all your grand babies. I think about you every day even more since Violet was born. It breaks my heart to know that she won’t ever know you or know what a wonderful man you were, and a loving grandfather. Molly misses you so much and asks all the time why she didn’t get to give Dada a cuddle before he left. I am sure you are watching over us every day and loving your family who miss you more every day that passes.
I love you Daddy
Shelley
(6/11/2008)
14/12/2008
Dear Dad.
Well a year has passed it has been quite a task, today we toast to your past.
It has been a challenge not to have you here for that chat, advise on life or to hear about your strife. To have you here to help build our house and watch me argue with the builders the way you would have in the past.
Watching Mia grow up so quick, she is a great kid, We tell her Dada is in the clouds, oh dad you would be so proud.
Wayne and I often reminisce, you are so dearly missed, however, you are around I always feel you near but I just can’t understand why you didn’t want to be here.
Love Dom
Dad I can’t believe it has been a year since you have left us. I miss you terribly every day, the nights are the worst when everything is quiet. I know you are still with us in spirit, please keep watch over our precious little angel’s here on earth. We all had dinner at the pub last night to celebrate your memory. The girls are growing very beautifully and you would be so proud of them. The girls miss you more than you would imagine. Molly constantly talks about you which is nice I like it, we will keep you alive in our memories and thoughts, I love you Dad, till we meet again.
Your Shell bell
Hi Dad, all is quite well getting ready to turn 39 wow....a big girl soon.
Mia is blossoming and Wayne is doing fine.
Love you, miss you, remembering you everyday.
Love Dom xoxo
21/1/2009
Just a note to say Hi, oh gee that feels good
Everyone is well, Leigh Jarosz had the baby another girl Molly (but I am sure you already know)
We are all going to a Scorpions function on the 23rd of May do you want to come ?
You have been selected as 1 of 3 best front rowers for the 50th Anniversary Team it should be good.
How is Sam going, Oscar is wearing Sam`s winter coat.
Love you, miss you, chat later,
Love Dom
5/5/2009
Dear Dad
Happy Birthday for yesterday, I tried to leave a birthday message for you but for some reason the website would not let me. I thought about you all day as I know the others did also. You are never far from my thoughts. I still hope to see you driving your truck, I know you are not but I have to catch my breath every time I see a truck that looks like yours. I know we will all be together again one day. Miss Violet is walking now, she will be 9 months tomorrow. You would be so proud of all your family but I know you are watching over us. I miss you so much and I wish you were still here with us.
Love always your proud daughter Shelley xxxxx
10/6/2009
Hey Dad,
Love you so much, miss you as much..however, far away I just wanted to say HAPPY FATHERS DAY.
With all my love Dom xoxo
2009
Dear Grampa John ,
We are always thinking of you . Lily frequently talks about you and recalls wonderful memories together. She has your picture in her room. Next week will be two years that you have been gone and it still brings tears to my eyes when I think of you and all the fun happy times we have all been deprived of . I often feel you around when Bella is not doing well….I know you are there watching over her . Though she could never tell you with words ….she adored you and your cuddles. I have a new little one Molly .
Mum is here with us now to help with the girls during difficult times for Belle. I don’t think Mum will ever be the same without you . she seems to have lost half of herself when you left. She misses you deeply. Even though I wasn’t your blood daughter you made me and my girls feel loved and included. Thank you . Thank you also for giving Mum, I know the best years of her life .
We miss you so much and love you dearly. Please come visit with us in our dreams . A chat and a cuddle would be lovely. Do you think you could have a word with God and all the Angels to heal Bella and ease her suffering. If that’s not possible just come see her in her dreams and give her a Grampa John cuddle.
Love and miss you , Leigh ooxx
Dear Dad,
Two years ago today you were here at my house colouring in a wiggles picture with Jack and Ruby. I wish you were here now. I miss you. The kids miss you. We all miss you. I love you.
Angie. xxx
Hi Dad,
Almost your birthday again, this Saturday actually. We are always thinking of you, not just on your birthday.
Our daughter Halle Rose was born 5 months ago today on the 6/1/2012.. You would love her. She is so funny and just so cute. I hope you can see her and how beautiful she is.
We all miss you very much. I often think of calling you when I`m driving then I remember that I can`t. Silly isn`t it?
Wish you were here Dad. Lots of love, Gina. 6/6/2012.
Hey Dad, how are things going, i bet you have welcomed some new friends. Well summer is here again, all theChristmas festivities have concluded and now time to enjoy the Hot weather. You would be proud of me, i just arrived back from camping, We went to Hawks Nest for 7 nights it really was great fun. Now home to enjoy our swimming pool, and our beautiful home you helped assure Wayne and i it was perfect for us. Mia is heading into Yr 1 this year loved her kindergarten year heaps, actually met up with Alan and Vicki Jones at the school, Brookes` children go to the same school, its the one near Garden City, called Belair. Everyone is doing well, Christian bought a little duplex in Lakelands and doing just fine, really proud of him actually. Gina has had and loving being a mum to Halle who is 1 now, She`ll is keeping her large brood at bay, Ange is moving on in life doing up her little house beautifully, Moses is working hard in Brisbane building roof trusses and has the 5 kids. Well time to say good night, miss and love you always and always, wish i could give you a call.
Dom
10/1/2013
