Mr. Emerson P. Mitchell

October 23, 1923 - February 26, 2014

Emerson Parker Mitchell, Jr, devoted husband, father, and long-time resident of Lansingville, New York, has passed away at the age of 90. Surrounded by his family, his passing came on February 26, 2014 at 9:40 a.m. at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, New York. Emerson, (also known as “Mike” or “Mitch”) was born on October 23, 1923. Son of Mabel Shaw Mitchell and Emerson Parker Mitchell Sr. he was born and raised in Shelter Island New York. He was the youngest and last surviving of three siblings. Mike had a sister, Margaret Nichols and brother, Alexander Mitchell. In 1944 while training at the Sampson Naval Base in Sampson New York, he came to Ithaca on military leave. During one such occasion, he met his future wife, Esther Ruth Kelly. The two corresponded faithfully throughout the remainder of World War II and when the war ended, Mike returned to Ithaca and the two were married on October 24, 1947. In 2013 they happily celebrated their 66th year of marriage. Mike was employed for 28 years by the Lansing School District. At work as well as in the community, he was known for his exemplary work ethic, sense of humor and sharp wit. In his youth he had been an accomplished equestrian and continued to be an avid gardener and animal lover throughout his life. As a contributor to his community, Mike and Esther created several college scholarships for Lansing High School graduates, as well as graduates of Shelter Island High School. These scholarships continue to be awarded yearly. Mike is survived by his wife Esther Ruth Mitchell, eldest son Robert Duane Mitchell (Wife Kathy), daughter Deborah Ann Gleason (Husband James) and younger son Emerson William Mitchell (Wife Holley). He is also survived by his grandchildren Robert Duane Mitchell, Jr., Christina L. Bausano; Wednesday Elizabeth Mitchell and Emerson Parker Mitchell “Parker”. He is also survived by his great grandchildren Bella Christina Bausano and Emily Susan Mitchell. Calling hours and funeral services for Mike will be held at the Ithaca Salvation Army located at 150 N. Albany Street, Ithaca, New York on Friday, March 7, 2014. Calling hours will be from 1:00 p.m., until 2:00 p.m.; immediately followed by funeral services. In lieu of flowers, his family request that monetary donations be sent to the Ithaca Salvation Army. Mike was greatly loved and will be missed by his family and everyone that had the good fortune to know him.