I had the Honour and Pleasure of serving with Steve in 3 PPCLI and the Canadian Airborne Regiment. A soldiers soldier his personal example lead the way for others to follow, his no nonsense no BS style was key to getting the job done. No matter the challenge his quick smile and focus lead the way Always. Deepest condolences to his family, We Will Never Forget Him! P. M. ‘Trapper’ Cane MSM CD...

I am absolutely crushed to hear of Steve’s passing. He and I did the Joint Speakers Bureau together and I am honoured to have called him my friend and brother-in-arms. He was a gentleman and a very wise individual. I was hoping to make contact with him this summer. Although I never had the privilege of meeting his family, he always spoke of his love for them. I am so sorry for you loss. I love you brother until our next RV.

Joyce, Kathleen and Daniel,

We are so sorry to hear this shocking news. Steve was just an incredible person and we have so many amazing memories enjoying his company at the boys' games and Rundle get togethers. Sending our deepest condolences. Our hearts are breaking for all of you. Shelly, Glenn and Brad Burgess

I am so very sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your husband, Joyce. My sincerest and heartfelt condolences are with you.

Cheryl Yingst Bartel

As I,, many that served with Steve are shocked and sad from Steve’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Joyce. Robin Janfield

Joyce, Kathleen and Daniel, My thoughts are with you and your family at this very difficult time.

Through his passion for mental health and his support of The Working Mind, Steve helped change the lives of many people for the better.

With sincere sympathy, Lisa

My sincere condolences to Joyce, Kathleen and Daniel. I was so shocked to receive news of Steve's passing. I served with him at 3 PPCLI and the Canadian Airborne Regiment. He was one of the very best soldiers I ever met and I was lucky to have had him a senior NCO in my platoon. I'll always be grateful for how much he taught me about soldiering and how to deal with people. The laughs were great, too.

Steve was elite. He was a fantastic facilitator, passionate about mental health, and brought the greatness out in all of us. Sharp as a tack paired with his quick wit, made conversations with him fun and memorable - the thought provoking kind that stayed with you. I'm grateful for having worked with him at MHCC. He will be sorely missed, but will not be forgotten. My thoughts and sincere condolences go out to Joyce and the entire Mitchell family at this most difficult time.

Dear Joyce, Kathleen, and Daniel,

Our most sincere condolences to you for your loss. Steve was a devoted and loving husband, and father. We didn’t see Steve often but when we did, we always enjoyed his opinions and quick wit.

With sympathy to you and your family,

Margaret and Jim

Joyce, my sincere condolences for this terrible loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Stuart

We are so sorry to hear of Coach Steven's passing. He was a pleasure to coach with and Andrea and Aidan are grateful for all that Steven has done for them as a coach and manager in hockey and soccer.

Joyce, Kathleen and Daniel.

Myrna and I were saddened to learn of Steve's passing and want to express our deepest condolence. I have many great memories of Steve at the many hockey games and practices we sat together at. We had so many laughs together and I am sorry that since Trevor finished hockey we had not seen each other to continue on with the laughs. I think the last time I saw Steve was with you Joyce when of all the places to run into you it was on Park Avenue in New York City a few years back.

May the great memories you have of Steve give you some comfort at this time.

Take care all of you.

Jeff Brown

Joyce, Kathleen & Daniel,

Both Nancy and I would like to express our sincere condolences to you. Steve was an amazing person and an exceptional friend. He was extremely proud of the three of you and always expressed that pride whenever we met. He will be missed by all who knew him and remembered always. You are in our thoughts and prayers in this time of unimaginable loss.

Sincerely, Gary and Nancy

Joyce,

My sincerest condolences for you at this time. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Deb

Sincere condolences to the Mitchell family. Words can't describe the shock and sense of loss felt at the Seaforth WOs' & Sgts' Mess when we heard of Steve's passing. As was mentioned in the obituary, Steve worked with the Seaforths throughout the late 90s as our Regular Force Support Staff / Advisor. Throughout this time, Steve had a tremendous influence on all members of the Regiment, on soldiers of all rank levels. Steve was constantly involved in all training during his tenure and was genuinely passionate about the proper training and exercising of soldiers. There is no doubt in my mind that Steve’s involvement during that time directly lead to Seaforth soldiers surviving their tours in Afghanistan, only a few years later.

Although many of our NCOs now only know Steve from the Burn's Suppers he attended after retirement, we continue to reap the benefits of his knowledge and professionalism. This is how profound Steve's legacy was on this Mess and this Regiment, as a whole.

I, however, am blessed with having many memories of working with Steve during those times. Now, as a Warrant Officer as well, I find myself often emulating things that he did, said, or how he acted as a Warrant, all those years ago. I am so saddened…

WO Stacey Shannon

PMC

…on behalf of the serving and Associate members of the WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess,

Seaforth Highlanders of Canada.

Our Sincere condolences to Steve’s family and friends. Steve and I made our separate ways from the bright lights of Toronto to Trenton, enroute to the tidal waters of the East Coast. From there we ended up exploring the badlands and buffalos of Alberta for a while, then off to the rain forests of the West Coast and sunny Victoria. Within a year, Steve relocated back to Ontario (the picturesque Ottawa River Valley). I followed suit, a year later.

Steve was always a household favorite with mom and dad, my siblings, and civilian friends. While abroad with the Skyhawks or on operations in the Eastern Hemisphere, my parents always knew where he was by the many post cards received.

Steve was high performer, with an unwavering commitment to the mission and to those around him. A model soldier and civilian with a moral compass. A good soul and good friend.

I’ve always cherished our time together, and humbled to have known him. I’m deeply saddened by his sudden and premature passing, yet celebrate knowing that he “lived, loved and laughed”, as Steve always put it.

Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Sincerely, Doug and Rhian Heeley

Joyce, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I really enjoyed the conversations I had with Steve and cannot imagine how difficult this must be for all of you.

So sorry to hear this sad news of Steve's passing. Sincere condolences to all the Mitchell family. I served with Steve in the Canadian Airborne Regiment. A true Soldier and friend. One thing that he garnered so much respect from all his friends and even those that were not 'fussy' about him was that Steve always spoke his mind. You knew where you stood with him. Fair winds and soft landings old buddy. Airborne.

My deepest and most sincere condolences to Joyce and the entire Mitchell family. Steve and I served together in both the Canadian Airborne Regiment and 3 PPCLI. He was a great soldier, good friend and a real funny guy. Our band of brothers always enjoyed his strong opinions, moral compass, sharp wit and camaraderie. He will be sorely missed by all of us that were blessed by his presence and friendship.

Dear Joyce - As one who helped encourage the Mitchell’s to come to Calgary I was shocked to see Steve’s obituary. While you were the main reason for my encouragement, I was delighted Steve was part of the package. I enjoyed my many conversations and social gatherings with Steve albeit the talk of soldering was never far away. I also admired his parenting partnership with you given your busy schedule. Diane and I send you our condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

David Field

Steve was an absolute joy to work with. He shared his passion for mental wellness with all of our employees and leaders. I appreciated his vulnerability and knowledge. May all of your memories bring comfort as a result of this great loss.

I first met Steve as the Warrant Officer for my Canadian Forces Junior Leadership courses at CFB Wainwright in 1998. His professionalism and overall demeanour impressed all of us candidates - even to this very day many of us consider him to have exemplified what a professional NCM is supposed to act while in service.

Last time I saw Steve was over a decade ago. Coincidentally, I was a Sgt teaching a basic course at the time, and the staff were all waiting for a civilian subject-matter-expert to come talk to the recruits about menta health. We were passing the time discussing examples of good leadership over coffee, and I had just finished extolling the virtues of WO Mitchell when I looked up to find that the civilian expert had arrived. Imagine my shock when it turned out to be "Mr. Mitchell"! The recruits were lucky enough to have Steve present to them that day, and it was amazing to see him once again.

This hit hard for all of Steve's extended military family. On behalf of all the buddies I've talked to about Steve in the past day - our deepest condolences to the Mitchell family.

-- MWO David (Dave) Miles.

Mrs Joyce Mitchell and Family -

I write to express to you the sincere condolences of the Patricia’s on the passing of Warrant Officer (Ret'd) Steve Mitchell. His uniformed service with the PPCLI and associated units was a great contribution to the Canadian Forces and to Canada, but in many ways was surpassed by the service he gave back to the mental health community and its peer support networks.

The Regiment remembers Steve's service, and you and your family I am sure are proud of that service. His name will be read in this year’s list of the lost when we read that out on November 11th, 2022 in the Sacred Space in Beechwood, the National Military Cemetery, Ottawa. His name will also be listed in the 2022 edition of the Patrician’s Last Post section, published in March 2023.

Thank you for obviously supporting Steve throughout his service and later. We are glad that he had a vibrant family and the love and respect of many.

Thank you all.

Brigadier-General Vince Kennedy (Retired)

Colonel of the Regiment

Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry

Dear Joyce, Kathleen and Daniel,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear husband and father. Steve was a fantastic man who was always such a pleasure to talk to about character, sport, athletics and life. His passion and care for others was clearly evident as was his support of his family and children. I am sorry I am not able to make it on Saturday, but please accept my deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

In conjunction with the MHCC, Steve helped us implement an innovative “first in class” mental health awareness campaign, The Working Mind. His knowledge, genuine kindness and humor will not be forgotten, as Steve positively impacted more people's lives than he could ever imagine. My heart felt condolences go out to his family and all who knew him.

Steve was my Platoon Warrant Officer on my leadership course in 1998 and helped me (peer counselling) when I was struggling after my tour in Afghanistan. Over the years I would bump into him from time to time at 1st responders conferences and I always enjoyed our talks. Steve was a real gem and will be missed. Gone too soon. My deepest condolences to his family.

Joyce, Kathleen & Danie, I am saddened by this news and am lost in words. Steve was a great friend and a leader who's honesty guidence helped me out in my toughest times in the years I got to know and work with. I always looked forward to every Burns in the hopes that he would make it, get a chance to catch up and when he did show up his voice and the laughter always made the evening. I am so happy to have met and worked with Steve. All his peers from Seaforth shall Never Forget. I will never Forget. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you and family. Rest In Peace Steve

Rahool Vadgama

Our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of our Airborne Brother who has gone to make room before those of us left behind. Steve will be fondly remembered by all who served and knew him for what he was and will always be "a true devoted soldier who paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps" Rest in Peace our Brother..Airborne Social Club (Edmonton).

MESSAGE FROM A DEPARTED COMRADE

My helmet, now a halo

wings replace my chute,

to fly amongst the eagles

no Soldier would dispute.

No aircraft is needed

to take me to the sky,

your prayers from below

have lifted me so high.

My spirit is my engine

no need to refuel,

no runway required

a rainbow’s edge will do.

No need for maps or compasses,

my angels are my guides,

their strength and love have gifted me

to soar the sky with pride.

The heavens here are endless

my soul’s now free to roam,

there is no need to cry my friends;

This Airborne Trooper found his home. ….Unknown

I had the great distinction to work with Steve at the Mental Health Commission of Canada, as he was one of our most senior and respected trainers for our programs. I remember Steve's enormous passion for issues related to mental health, his positive energy and his strong presence. His sudden loss reminds me how precious the time we have with each other truly is. His passing also represents a huge gap in the field; he will be sorely missed.

Dr. Keith Dobson, University of Calgary

Joyce, Kathleen & Daniel

I wish I had the words to express how much Steve meant to me and how much his loss will be felt by Am and I. His guidance, advice and friendship were without a doubt the most influential in all of my successes as a human being, a soldier and now later in life an advocate for others. I will miss his brutal honesty, his original and wicked sense of humour and our annual Burns Dinner adventures and family discussions / bragging sessions. The Regiment, his peers and friends here in Vancouver send their condolences and thoughts to you at this time.

Jim Purdy & Amelia Dare

Steve was the nicest Facilitator I have ever worked with. He was always so kind to all the work I do in the community and encouraging towards me. He will be missed. God Bless.

My sincere condolences to Steve's family and friends. I met Steve through the Mental Health Commission of Canada, where he did remarkable work as a trainer and advocate for mental health. Holding you all in my heart. Lynn Best, NL

It is with great sadness I learned about Steve. I worked with him for almost 10 years teaching mental health. I considered him a mentor and respected him enormously. The love for his family always came through. My condolences for your loss. He was truly a good man. Valerie Morinville

I served with Steve in the Airborne Regiment back in the 80s. Both an excellent soldier and leader, I had the opportunity to work with Steve and was always impressed with his passion to both the military and soldiers he served with. We became friends over the years and I was always pleased to see him whenever our paths crossed. I am very saddened on his sudden departure and will miss him. Be at peace brother.

Airborne

Joyce and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Steve was a great influence on so many people, including me personally. He was not merely competent and professional but also very human and empathetic. I will miss him. Rest In Peace.

Dear Joyce and Family. My memories of Steve were of true friendship. I have never met a more dedicated leader and was an inspiration to me. My prayers are with you. Brent Smith, Vancouver

I was in battle school with Steve he was a solid man and a good soul we were brothers in arms in PPCLI. I will always remember him as that. Rest In Peace Brother

My condolences and prayers go out to Steve's family. Steve was a good friend and a great soldier who we all respected. I served with him in the 2nd Commando, 3 PPCLI and on tour over in Cyprus. He was always there for you when you needed a hand or knowledge with something. The last time I ran into Steve was in Chilliwack BC in 1998 while I was on my Pioneer course, we were going to lunch at the mess and looked at each other in surprise to each other then got to talking and catching up for about a half hour then we had to get back to work. My brother, my friend, until we meet again in Valhalla, RIP.

I remember serving with Steve in 3 PPCLI in the early 80’s. I followed him to the Airborne Regiment about a year after he went and gave me a lot of moral support and some wisdom. After I left Petawawa I didn’t see Steve again until some time in the 2010’s in Calgary and he was working with VAC and assisting soldiers with mental health.

We talked about getting together but it never seemed to happen. RIP Steve and condolences to your loved ones.

Steve and I went through PPCLI Battle School together, basic parachutist course, and were roommates in 2 Commando. We served together as Pathfinders in the Cdn Airborne Regiment where I moved into his apartment when he went to the Sky Hawks in 1986. I last saw him at the Patricia 100th anniversary in Edmonton in 2015. A very intelligent man, an outstanding soldier and all around great guy. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Gone way too young. Fair winds and soft landings my brother. Until we meet again.

Great soldier, leader and person. My thoughts and prayers to Steve's comrades and family.

I was Class B at the Seaforths when Steve was there as RSS. As such - I worked with (for) him quite a bit. He was instrumental in getting me course loaded onto some military courses. What I will remember the most however is he also took the reference call from the City Fire Dept that I applied to. Perhaps he lied a bit - but I got that job. He then took the time to have a chat with me when I left and went to the FD, that has stuck with me to this day. He didn’t have to. I was a MCpl, reserve, he was a WO, Reg - but he did. My condolences to his family. I was glad to have known him.

My deepest sympathy to Steves family. We went through Recruit School together in May-July 81 and served in the Airborne Regiment together. A great soldier well respected by all who worked with him. RIP Brother.

It seems like yesterday we were just sitting on the sidelines watching our kids playing Rugby for Alberta, I respect you as a soldier, father and friend. I will miss our sarcastic talks about life and the people we knew. You will be missed, Brother

David Pusch

I am lost for words. It was a honor to call u my friend. Fair winds and soft landings Bro. Taken too soon!

RIP.

Adam Corbett

Joyce, we are absolutely heartbroken for you, Kathleen and Daniel. All that keeps coming back to mind is our conversation last week whereby you recounted your NYE with Kathleen and Daniel and how special it was. I had commented to several people how funny, engaging and absolutely genuine we found Steve to be.

The deepest and most sincere condolences from both Barry and I.

My brother. I will miss you. We lost touch but I remember my early days after my injury. Until we me again in Valhalla.

Condolence to the Family from all members of the Edmonton Branch of the PPCLI Association. Once a Patricia Always a Patricia. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember him.

I first meet Steve on our Small Arms course and again on Warrants Course. A super fit and funny man. Always saw the good in everything we were doing, great sense humour. But that grin of his always told you he had more to add to a story. May he RIP.

Herb Kenny

Joyce,

Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We are sorry for your loss.

Henryka Kryczmanik and family