Eight Bells: Dick Mitchele

Richard “Dick” Mitchele

Richard “Dick” Mitchele died peacefully surrounded by his family due to congestive heart failure on November 14, 2017. He was 81 years.

Born in Toronto, ON, Dick was a graduate of University of Toronto in Mechanical Engineering and Business. As an entrepreneur, Dick ran Archery Craft and co-founded Aquachem. He was most passionate about friends and family and the time spent with them.

He grew up with a strong connection with outdoor sporting activities and with a growing family, focused on life sports which could be done by all ages and enjoyed together. In the winter he loved to ski while his greatest passion was sailing.

“Dick owned Thisbe, a classic 8 metre, and while racing was very competitive we always managed to have a great deal of fun,” notes Peter Epstein. “Dick’s entire family as well as extended family would always offer help with maintaining Thisbe, with Dick supervising and always handy with a story. Incredibly attentive at the helm he would always hear a line in the water before any of us would.”

Dick was a member, past commodore, and Honourary Life Member of Port Credit Yacht Club. He was also a long-term member of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. This passion for life sports was a great gift that he passed on to his family.

Dick is survived by his wife Marianne and children John (Heather Ann), Richard, Chris (Jennifer), and Kirsten (Bill); grandfather to eight wonderful grandchildren; and brother to Nancy (George).

Visitation at Thompson Funeral Home (530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora) on November 23rd, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at Thompson Funeral Home on November 24th, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed to the Salvation Army (salvationarmy.ca).

Dick in the centre surrounded by family.