Monte Mitchell

Monte R. Mitchell took his final flight home on October 16 surrounded by his three daughters. He was born on his parents’ farm in Quincy, Missouri on February 6, 1929. His parents were Floyd and Fratie Mitchell. His family included three brothers, Howard Mitchell, Stanley Mitchell, James Dallas Mitchell and two sisters, Betty Mitchell Houtchens and Bonnie Mitchell Stevens.
Monte married his sweetheart, JoAnn Ryan on Valentine’s Day in 1954.
Monte served his country in the Korean War. He was a member of Noland Road Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon for many years. Monte was a member of the Hogle’s Creek Masonic Lodge in Wheatland, Missouri for the past 62 years.
Monte enjoyed a wonderful career in the general aviation industry. He began in 1956 with Wilcox Electric Co., a transponder manufacturer. When he left Wilcox he joined Bonzer Manufacturing. In 1977, he was recruited for the position of President of the Aircraft Electronics Association, an international trade organization. During his 20 year tenure as AEA President, he tripled the membership size and introduced new programs and services still in place today.
On August 17, 1994, he stood next to President Bill Clinton inside the Oval Office of the White House during a signing ceremony on an aviation bill that Monte helped lead the efforts to pass.
He was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn, both parents, brothers Howard and Stanley.
He is survived by three daughters, Debra Mitchell McFarland (Terry), Paula Mitchell Derks (Bruce) and Lisa Mitchell Lufft (Tom). He was the very proud grandfather of six grandchildren, Jennifer McFarland Berka (Edward), Lauren McFarland, Erica Derks, Ryan Derks, Jeremy Lufft and Jake Lufft. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.
A visitation for family and friends is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 20, from 9:30-11 a.m. at Speaks Suburban Chapel; 18020 E. 39th Street; Independence, MO; 64055. A memorial service will immediately follow the visitation.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggestions contributions to the Aircraft Electronics Association Educational Foundation, 3570 NE Ralph Powell Road, Lees Summit, MO 64064.