Joseph M. Mitchell, Sr, 82, of Catawba Island, passed away Thursday, March 3, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born May 5, 1939, in Wise County, V.A., the son of Olie and Dora (Potter) Mitchell. After his mom died Joe was raised by his father and step-mother: Olie and Ruth Mitchell. He married Rosa Lee Taylor on Dec. 1, 1956, and she survives.

He was a mechanic for Celetox, retiring in 1994. Joe was a member of Gypsum Community Church and was a founding member of Ottawa County Bluegrass Band. For over 25 years he played and sang in the band with two of his sons.

Surviving are his wife: Rosa Lee; sons: Joseph M. (Donna) Mitchell, Jr. of Port Clinton, Dennis (Candy) Mitchell of Port Clinton, Dale (Amanda) Mitchell of Oak Harbor; daughter-in-law: Barbara Mitchell of Port Clinton; grandchildren: Olivia (Dan) Kodak, Joseph M. (Jamie) Mitchell, III, Melissa (Travis) Kowalski, Christian (Jessica) Rollheiser, Molly Mitchell, Andrea Mitchell, Cam Martin; eleven great-grandchildren; sister: Betty Harvey of Coeburn, V.A. and brother: Bob (Mary) Mitchell of Port Clinton. He was preceded in death by his mother: Dora Mitchell; father and step-mother: Olie and Ruth Mitchell; twin sisters: Fay Rhea and Ray Meade; brothers: Avery Mitchell and Edward Mitchell.

Visitation was held Sunday, March 6, at Neidecker, Crosser & Priesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1124 Fulton St., Port Clinton. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 7, at the funeral home. Interment followed in Catawba Island Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Stein Hospice, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870 or Alzheimers Association, 644 Linn S. #1026, Cincinnati, OH 45203. Online condolences may be shared with the family atwww.neideckercrosserpriesman.com.