Martin Henry Mitchell

Martin Henry Mitchell, 72, of Lansing and formerly of Battle Creek, Michigan died unexpectedly at his home on April 11, 2026.

Martin was born November 19, 1953, in Battle Creek, Michigan the son of Merlin Henry and Marilou (Leveiller) Mitchell. He grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1971 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. Marty was formerly a journeyman painter with District Counsel 1M Painters Union. He retired from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Marty painted many State of Michigan offices, several buildings on the Michigan State University campus, banks and numerous other commercial and government buildings in the Lansing area, his home for most of his adult life. Marty was a precise painter and always did first class preparation and painting, and he demanded the same of those he worked with.

Martin was a former Union president for the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. He was obsessed with golf. Marty formerly played softball for years and was a member of the Lansing Stroh’s men’s softball team that won a State title. He was very patient and easy-going and built very intricate models. Marty will be remembered as an instant friend to anyone he met, his devotion to his parents and siblings, his many friends and classmates, and was someone who would give you the shirt off his back.

Surviving are his siblings, Melinda Mitchell of Battle Creek, Maureen (Dennis) Whitney of Gulf Shores, AL, Matthew (Sue) Mitchell of Battle Creek; eight nieces and nephews, Justin (Shannon) Warren, Jordan Whitney, Devin Whitney, Cole (Anna)Whitney, Jason Mitchell, Amber Mitchell, Holly Mitchell, and Lacy Mead; many great-nieces and nephews, several cousins and their families, and an aunt, Cheryl Scott. Also, his group of friends in Lansing where he lived most of his adult life and his many friends from his childhood and teen years in Battle Creek, who he was constantly in touch with. Marty was preceded in death by his parents, Merlin and Marilou.

A graveside service will be held at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in the chapel Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Following will be a get together of remembrance at the American Legion Post 298, 228 N 20th St., Battle Creek.

Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.