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| Nov. 12, 2010 SSUSA Staff 3490 posts | Bob Mitchell • Founder of SSUSA We are sad to inform the Senior Softball players both in America and internationally that Bob Mitchell, the founder of Senior Softball-USA has died. Bob's vision was the guiding force in developing a competitive senior softball program that has allowed thousands of seniors to play ball on a national level. He also introduced the game to seniors in more than 30 countries. Bob Mitchell put his heart and soul into the senior softball program and we thank him for providing the vision and determination to build Senior Softball-USA and ask players to remember Bob and His family in their prayers. He was a close personal friend and he will be missed greatly. Terry Hennessy CEO, Senior Softball-USA ____________________________________ Bob Lee MitchellOn March 23, 1930, Bob Lee Mitchell was born in Muskogee, OK. He was taken to heaven Nov 7th. A loving husband, father and grandfather, he accomplished some amazing things in his 80 years, but humor was one of his favorite past time. He served in the United States Navy after WWII aboard the USS Henry W. Tucker. Stationed in China he witnessed many cruel and fascinating events. In his 28 years as a California Highway Patrolman he held the record for arresting drunk drivers. After retiring as a Lieutenant he founded Senior Softball-USA, Inc., which grew into the largest senior softball organization in the world. He brought hundreds of US players to goodwill games in more than 30 countries. Along the way he made many international friendships, was given the City Key in Hilo, Hawaii (by the mayor) and helped the Japan Ministry of Sports develop a very successful senior softball program. He was inducted into both the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame and the SSUSA Hall of Fame. After retiring a second time, he published “Drunk Driving: Why the Carnage Continues,” a book that maps specific steps for law enforcement and court systems to successfully prevent drunk driving, saving thousands of lives. Bob lived by the creed “Truthfulness, accuracy, honesty and reason” and often said in difficult situations: “Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary?” He was foremost a Christian who enjoyed serving as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, President of the Christian Fellowship of Peace Officers & ushering at Billy Graham Crusades. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Laura of Granite Bay; daughter Cheryl Row of Granite Bay, son Steve Mitchell of Santa Maria, son Bob Mitchell Jr of Sacramento, granddaughters Trish Mitchell, Jennifer Mitchell, Heidi Row & Kate Best. There will be a private grave-side service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalition, PO Box 484, Grass Valley, CA, 95945. |
