Arthur O. Mitchell, 72, of Monticello passed away at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday (October 17, 2018) at OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center, Urbana.

 

Art was born May 7, 1946 in Monticello, IL, the son of Glenn and Helen (Pierson) Mitchell. Raised in Monticello, he graduated from Monticello High School and Eastern Illinois University. Art held the Monticello High School high jump record from 1964-1975. He was awarded the Eastern Blanket, which was the highest award given for his performance on the EIU Track team. Art married the love of his life, Carolyn (Blacker) in Monticello on January 20, 1973. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary earlier this year. She survives.

 

Also surviving are his children, Corey Mitchell of Monticello and Sara (Nathan) Reed of Dunlap and grandchildren Hallie and Addison Reed. Also surviving is his brother, Mike (Nanci) Mitchell of Monticello and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Art retired from the Eastern Illinois University Police Department in May 2008. He served in the U.S. Army from 1969-1970. Art was a Vietnam veteran and was awarded the Air Medal and two Bronze Star Medals for his service.

 

He was an Illini, Cubs, and Bears fan. He enjoyed his children and attended all their sporting events, as well as enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters. In his retirement, he enjoyed spending time in his man cave (garage) and relaxing watching his favorite TV shows.

 

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 20, 2018 at the Mackey-Wright Funeral Home, Monticello with Pastor Kathy Sweet officiating. Visitation will be held for one-hour prior to the service. Interment will be held in Monticello Township Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Kirby Medical Center. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mackey-wrightfuneralhome.com