Gerald Olin Mitchell, 92, Belle passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at his residence surrounded by loving family.
Olin was born Jan. 18, 1933, a son to the late Willis and Era (Schwegler) Mitchell in Freedom.
He was a lifelong area resident and a member of the Belle Community Church. Olin had also attended the Beulah Baptist Church and the Mt. Zion Baptist church and was the song leader for both for a time. He had served as vice president of the Tri-County Coon Hunters Club, president of the Francis Cemetery board, the Belle/Bland Saddle Club, and of the “55 and Older Club” for 17 years.
Olin was united in marriage to Wanda Vandgrifft Sept. 19, 1952.Wanda preceded him in death July 13, 2019.
Olin had been employed at International Shoe for 16 years and retired from the Laborers Union #840 after 27 years in the construction business.
He loved riding horses, went on many trail rides through the years, and passed that love onto his grandkids and the rest of his family. Olin enjoyed fishing and hunting coon, coyotes, quail and going on rides in his side by side. He liked going out to eat at Granny’s in Bland and J.J.’s in Belle and visiting with people. Olin loved spending time on his farm and above all, time spent with his family. He will be missed greatly by his family, community, and anyone who knew and loved him.
Olin was preceded in death by wife of 66 years, Wanda; parents, Willis and Era; grandson, Troy Feeler; brother Arnold Mitchell; sister, Glayds Reed; infant brother, Ronald Mitchell; and son-in-law, Morris Brown.
He is survived by children, Thelma Brown and husband Mike of Linn, Gerald Mitchell and wife Norma of Rolla and Karen Brown of Bland; grandchildren, Keith Brown and wife Karla of Bland, Kristy Scheel of Blue Springs, Donnie Brown and wife Carissa of Belle, Nikki Haslag and husband Tracy of St. Clair, Gerry Mitchell and wife Susan of St. James, Sheryl Mitchell and husband Eric of Crawfordville, Fla. and Tyra Wiegers and husband Steve of Owensville; 16 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; as well as many extended family members and friends.
A memorial service will take place at a later date and will be announced by Sassmann’s Chapel.
Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle.
