Donald W. Mitchell, 64, of South Portland, died May 29 at Gosnell House in Scarborough.

He was born Dec. 3, 1948, in Middlebury, Vt., the son of Harold and Betty Mitchell. He lived his early life in Forest Dale, Vt., attending local schools.

Following graduation from high school, Mitchell trained as a court stenographer and reporter, working with the Vermont judicial system and later the judiciary in Maine. He was a dedicated employee, enjoyed his colleagues and friends, and respected the lawyers and judges with whom he worked.

In his “retirement,” Mitchell worked with Goodwill stores in South Portland and Falmouth, and with Catholic Charities of Maine. In these positions, he shared his enjoyment of books and collectibles, and was always proud of the organizations’ missions to the community.

To his many friends, Mitchell was like family. He showed others how to live life despite medical challenges, and he embraced life with dignity and grace.

Mitchell attended St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in Scarborough.

He was predeceased by his mother and father. He is survived by his brother Harold “Butch” Mitchell and his wife, Linda, of Claremont, N.H.; David “Pike” Mitchell and his wife, Colleen, of Forest Dale, Vt.; Michael Mitchell, of Forest Dale, Vt.; nephew Eric Mitchell and grandniece Ember; and his dearest friends Jo Gill Richards and Tony Richards, of South Portland. Mitchell was a longtime friend and mentor to Daniel Lipps, of Portland.

The family would like to thank the many physicians and staff of the Southern Maine Dialysis Center, including John Erickson and James Wasserman. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the South Portland Nursing Home Activity Fund, 42 Anthoine St., South Portland, ME 04106, to honor his friends Barbara and Joyce.

A private burial will be held in Vermont. A celebration of Mitchell’s life is being planned and will be held in the Portland area in early summer.

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