JAY ANTHONY MITCHELL

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Jay Anthony Mitchell (Tony) in the early morning of March 31, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Jay leaves his wife of forty plus years Margaret (Margie), daughter Michelle (Sam), son Matthew (Brie), grandchildren Luca, Scarlett, Robyn, Eric, and Anthony, sisters Jackie Reykdal and Marilyn McNeil, and many nieces and nephews to mourn his passing. Jay was predeceased by his parents Jack and Anne Mitchell and brothers-in-law Lynn Reykdal and Larry McNeil.

Jay was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and grew up in the St. Vital and Elmwood areas. As a young man, Jay was active in cadets and spent many summers helping build the family cottage at McConnell Lake.

Working a few different jobs, Jay found his calling in the construction industry. After working with Castlewood Homes, Design Four Construction and Kensington Homes, Jay opened his own company, Mitchell Builders, in 1984. Jay put his heart and soul into his company and grew the business, eventually employing over sixty people. Jay enjoyed his work and treated his employees well. He believed in “work hard, play hard” and hosted many work parties, golf tournaments, and social functions over the years. 

Jay met the love of his life Margie in 1979, they married in 1983. They were blessed with two children. Jay’s kids were his pride and joy, and he was a constant presence at their sporting events, usually coaching or managing the teams. Jay enjoyed time with his family, especially traveling throughout Canada the US in their fifth-wheel trailer.

In 1992 Jay was diagnosed with Leukemia, forcing him to dissolve his construction business. In 1997 Jay had a successful bone marrow transplant that allowed him to enjoy his early retirement. 

To celebrate his new lease on life Jay built a family cottage on Winnipeg River in Lac du Bonnet. Jay and Margie moved to the cottage full time in 2007. They spent some wonderful years at the cottage hosting family and friends, boating, and making new friends.  

During Jay and Margie’s time in Lac du Bonnet they purchased, renovated, and ran the local hamburger drive-in which they named Chippers.  

In 2019, Jay and Margie sold the cottage and moved to Oakbank to be closer to family and friends. Jay enjoyed spending time in his garage and man-cave, doing odd jobs around the house, and making his yard beautiful. Jay was a passionate and loyal sports fan. He had season tickets for many years, while faithfully cheering on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Winnipeg Jets.

Many things can be said about Jay, but one undeniable thing is that he truly lived his life to the fullest and lived it his way. He was a kind, generous, and unique man and he will be deeply missed. 

The family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the doctors and nurses at Selkirk General Hospital for the wonderful care they provided to Jay.  

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, May 6th at 1:00 p.m. in the banquet hall at Oakbank Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army and Siloam Mission. 

Jay’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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