Richard Andrew Mitchell Jr.

Richard Andrew Mitchell, Jr, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away on August 12, 2026 in Idaho Falls surrounded by family. He was 85.

Born on October 11, 1940 in Wilkinsburg, PA, he was the son of Richard Andrew Mitchell, Sr. and Eleanor Ruth Rehanek. He attended Penn State University and earned two degrees, Animal Husbandry and Business. In 1967, he married Anne Elizabeth Hancock and together they shared 59 wonderful years. He worked for Westinghouse Electric at various locations throughout Pennsylvania, then transferred within the company to the INL Site in 1982 as a Property Manager. He retired in 1999.

Dick enjoyed fishing, hunting, reloading his own rounds, reading, exercising regularly, walking the family dog, gardening and watching sports! For many years he took advantage of the opportunities that Idaho provided and was a successful deer, pronghorn, and pheasant hunter and slayed many fish at Henry's Lake. He taught his children and grandchildren respect for the land and animals plus how to hunt. In retirement he stayed busy volunteering in areas he was passionate about. He taught many people, young and old, how to be responsible and safe hunters as a volunteer Hunter Education Instructor for 35 years. He volunteered at the Museum of Idaho for 20+ years as a docent and read with children at Edgemont Elementary school for many years. He donated countless pints of blood to the Red Cross over the years, with the last pint at age 84.

Dick was an avid Penn State, Steelers, and Penguins fan. He and his family travelled to many games! He and his wife, Anne, also enjoyed traveling the world together. Many adventures were had in far away places with his favorite being Maui. Still, nothing beat going to West Yellowstone every fall for the end of season trip when the crowds had eased. Breakfast at the Two Bit Saloon was always a highlight.

He is survived by his wife Anne, his son Richard Andrew Mitchell, III and his wife Cheryl, daughter Elizabeth (Mitchell) Ferrara and her partner Karl Ehlert, 4 grandkids, and 2 great grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents and many other beloved relatives.

We will carry on his great empathy and quiet strength, making him proud.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Citizens Against Poaching in memory of Richard Mitchell.

https://citizensagainstpoaching.org/