John Lawrence Mitchell Jr.

John Lawrence Mitchell Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, Navy veteran, and longtime engineering construction professional, passed away peacefully on August 12th, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

John was born in Denver, Colorado, on March 5, 1946, to John L. Mitchell Sr. and Owen Bacon Mitchell. He grew up in Lakewood, Colorado, where he attended school before answering the call to serve his country. From 1965 to 1971, John proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He was promoted to Petty Officer in 1968 and always spoke with great fondness and pride about his years in the service.

After returning home, John began what would become a remarkable 42-year career in engineering construction, beginning with Stearns and Rogers and later working with Raytheon Engineering and Jacobs Engineering. In 1995, John and his family made Houston, Texas, their home when his career brought them down South. He retired from Jacobs Engineering in 2011, leaving behind a career marked by dedication, hard work, and contributions to many large and important projects.

John married the love of his life, Marge, on June 16, 1973. Together, they built a life filled with family, love, laughter, and countless memories. For 53 years, Marge was not only his wife, but his partner and constant companion through all of life's seasons. Their love was the foundation of their family and one of the greatest parts of John's life.

John was a loving father to David and Lisa and took tremendous pride in the people they became. But perhaps his greatest joy came from being Papa and Grandpa to his grandchildren, Madison, Londyn, Cole, and Taylor. He cherished every one of them and treasured the time they spent together. His family was his greatest accomplishment and the legacy he leaves behind.

Although Houston was home for the final 31 years of his life, John's heart never truly left Colorado. He loved the Rocky Mountains, Denver Broncos football, and chips and salsa. Colorado held a special place in his heart, and it is fitting that he will return there to rest among the mountains he loved so much.

John will be deeply missed by his wife, Marge of Houston, Texas; his children, David (Shirine) Mitchell of Danville, California, and Lisa (Jason) Kainer of Humble, Texas; and his beloved grandchildren, Madison, Londyn, Cole, and Taylor.

He is also survived by his brother, James Schatz, who lovingly called him Larry; four nieces; one nephew; and many great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins.

John's life was defined by the people he loved the family he devoted himself to, and the many lives he touched along the way. He was a man who served his country, worked hard for his family, loved deeply, and took great pride in those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to love him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to MD Anderson Cancer Center for their exceptional care and expertise, as well as the many nurses and caregivers who provided him with compassion and comfort during the final months of his life.

A memorial service and interment will be held at a future date at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado, where John will be laid to rest among his fellow veterans, at the base of the Rocky Mountains he loved so dearly.

He will be loved, remembered, and missed forever.