Paul D. Mitchell

Paul Douglas Mitchell, age 87, of Marshfield, WI, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his family on July 8, 2025.

Born November 7, 1937, in Sibley, Iowa, Paul was a son of the late Glenn and Ella (Wolff) Mitchell. A 1956 graduate of Melvin Consolidated High School, Paul continued his education and obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in biology (chemistry minor) and medical technology from the University of Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa (1960). He then received his Master’s Degree (1963) and Ph.D. (1967) in microbiology and biochemistry from West Virginia University Medical Center in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Paul married Mary Anne Strobach on September 1, 1963, in Des Moines, Iowa. Their son, Shawn Mitchell, was born in Morgantown, West Virginia. After completing graduate studies, Paul and Mary moved to Dayton, Ohio after he accepted a position as a clinical microbiologist at Good Samaritan Hospital. While living in Dayton, their daughter Heather (Mitchell) Mabie was born. 

Paul’s passion as a Microbiologist was the study of clinical and laboratory aspects of Lyme Disease, as well as the diagnosis of viral diseases. He helped pioneer the understanding of Lyme Disease per his serologic expertise. He was a member of numerous scientific associations including the American Society of Microbiology, American Society of Clinical Pathologists, and South-Central Association of Clinical Microbiology. He served as an editorial board member and was well-published in scientific journals.

Paul enjoyed woodworking and outdoor activities (especially fishing and hunting) and was always present at his children’s academic, sporting, and performing arts events. He was a prominent figure at church activities, particularly musical initiatives. You could often find Paul in the kitchen where he spent a great deal of time cooking and baking exceptional treats. He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan (and kindly made his family Packer shareholders) and cheered on the Iowa Hawkeyes whenever he had the chance.

Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who was quick to share a good “dad joke” and was loved by all.

Paul is survived by his wife, Mary Mitchell; son Shawn Mitchell (Gina); daughter Heather Mabie (Daniel); grandchildren Hannah (Hayden) Holland, Matthew Lohmeier, Joshua Lohmeier, Claire Mitchell; and great-granddaughter Emma Holland.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Mitchell.

A grave-site ceremony will take place at a future date in Sibley, Iowa.

Paul’s family would like to extend a special note of thanks to the staff at Wells Nature View for their kindness and never-wavering friendship. They would also like to express their gratitude to the staff at the MICU unit at Marshfield Medical Center and Compassus Hospice who cared for Paul.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marshfield Clinic Health System (https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/giving) or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (https://www.nationalmssociety.org)

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