I was not aware of your mother's passing until stopping your dad's grave.
We both accumulated little pressing irons; she had some "nifty" ones.
May pleasant memories dwell forever in your hearts.
don calkins CLU
August 22, 2016
My sincerest sympathies and apologies, I missed the announcement and was surprised when Gayle told me. There are people we know but have lost touch with but never forget and Lois was one. The times we spent running around the 15th street neighborhood and keeping Lois on her toes trying to keep track of us are fond memories. Hide and seek, rolling apples in the street, and popsicles in the garage were part of the good old days memories. Then when you all moved into the neighborhood behind us we had more good times together. Sorry we lost touch and more sorry she is gone, but never forgotten. God's Blessings.
Terry Martinson
January 29, 2016
Dear Mitchell Family - It was an honor and a privilege to have known your Mother. Thank You for giving me this opportunity. She was truly a happy person and an inspiration to me May the good memories always prevail!
Rachel Haley
Rachel Haley
January 26, 2016
The first time I met Lois was on Mother's Day almost 30 years ago. We were having Tom's mother, Gladys, for a Mother's Day meal and invited Lois and Bob. Of course Lois offered to bring dessert. After the phone conversation I realized I had invited a HOME EC Teacher for a meal. OMG what was I thinking? (For me a successful dinner party was if the ambulance was not called and no one came down with food poisoning.) I don't even remember the menu, but I remember how gracious Lois was.
I also remember her beautiful Asian furniture and love of antiques. (Only surpassed by her love of family). She also had a strong tenacious streak (aka stubborn), which I never personally witnessed but …… She was so musical...both Tom and I were in awe just listening to her play. Her outstanding musical talent brought much joy to her and others.
I remember talking to her about family and she told me she tried to stay out of her children's life and make no judgements. (Easier said then done. I will let her kids decide on that one.) One example was her family Christmas event which was held the weekend before Christmas so they would be with their family on Christmas Day. She was also proud of all the grandchildren and would glow when talking about them.
She also had beautiful gardens and freely shared plants and advise when I was just a novice. She shared some hostas...and at the point I did not even know what they were. I admired a parka she was wearing and she offered it to me. It had a leopard lining and I was extremely pleased to be able to wear it. And later offered me her ceramic nativity set. I have always considered that a loan in the event her children or grandchildren would want that for their own home.
Tom and I would visit her at the care facility. I was always struck by how cheerful she was and how she made me feel like a true member of the family. I will treasure her love and friendship.
By Tom Parks (brother) and Mary Hindman
Tom Parks and Mary Hindman
January 24, 2016
Deb , Joan and all of the Mitchell family. Please accept my condolences for the loss of your mother. I am at a loss for further words.
Robert M Burns
January 19, 2016
My deepest condolences to Ann & family. Mrs. Mitchell was one of the best at Wilson Junior high.
Janeen Schultz
January 18, 2016
John, Deb, Joan, Anne, Rob -
No words. Your Mom was the best! She was always very kind to me, as was your dad. I remember when my family moved to Seattle she gave me a decoupage she made of Abraham Lincoln, and it was one of my prized possessions for many years. It hung in my bedroom until I went into the Navy, and always reminded me of your family, and Cedar Rapids. I will always remember her. God Bless you all during this sad time.
Gary
Gary Cotton
January 18, 2016
My deepest sympathies to the family. Lois was a special friend to my mother in those years when us kids were growing up. Even though they had lost touch in later years the memories are still fond. Prayers for comfort to her family.
Gayle Martinson Zingula
January 18, 2016