Ernie Mitchell

Ernie Mitchell, 73, of Reinbeck, Iowa, passed away on the morning of Monday, December 27, 2021 in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his loving family.

Following Ernie’s wishes there will be a public visitation for Ernie held on Friday, December 31, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Abels Funeral Home French Hand Chapel located at 409 Clark Street, Reinbeck, IA 50669.  A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed in Ernie’s name to his family which will later be designated elsewhere.  For further information or to leave an online condolence please visit www.abelsfuneralhomes.com.  Abels Funeral Home French Hand Chapel is caring for Ernie and his family.

Ernie Keith Mitchell was born on February 20, 1948 in Dalton, GA, the son of Lilburn and Katherine Kerr (Babb) Mitchell.  He was raised and educated in GA where he graduated from West Side High School with the class of 1966.  Following graduation, Ernie honorably served his country. Ernie was always proud of his country and flew the Flag with the highest respect and honor.

On April 26, 1974 he was united in marriage to his first love, Rebecca “Becky” Breakenridge at the Amity Presbyterian Church in Reinbeck.  From this union one daughter was born: Rachel.  Becky passed away in September of 2002.  Ernie was blessed to meet Pamela Bentley and on June 21, 2008 the couple were united in marriage at the Ledges State Park in Boone, IA.  Their family grew big, and Ernie was so proud of his entire family.

Ernie was a very hardworking man and dedicated 39 years of his working life at Pioneer Hybrid. Ernie was a proud member of the Reinbeck American Legion, North East Riding Motorcycle club and in his younger years, he was involved with the Reinbeck Masonic group.

Ernie was a quite man but had a heart of gold for all those who crossed his path.  He lived and loved life to the fullest.  Ernie loved racing, fishing, going to the casino, woodworking, motorcycles and listening to music. The greatest joy was his family and the memories that he got to make watching his grandchildren grow up.

Left to cherish Ernie’s memory is his wife; Pamela Mitchell; daughter: Rachel (Andy) Boesen of Reinbeck, IA; granddaughters: Kameron Shroyer of Marion and Lily Boesen of Reinbeck; step-children: Heather (McKinney) Joseph Ewig of Adel, IA and Justin(Michelle) McKinney of Evansdale, IA; brothers: Alfred (Carolyn) Mitchell of Rocky Face, GA and Ed (Phyllis) Mitchell of Lafayette, GA; 8 grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Lilburn and Katherine (Kerr) Mitchell; one brother: Jerry Mitchell and his first wife: Rebecca “Becky” Mitchell.