Remembering Pastor Ed Mitchell: Linda Mitchell (center) accepts award for her husband Pastor Ed Mitchell, who recently died of cancer. His community devotion was recognized at the recent Chesterton/Duneland Chamber of Commerce luncheon. She is pictured with Dan Johnston (left) and Joy Johnston, of the Duneland United Churches Resale Shop, where Mitchell spent many hours volunteering.(Tribune photo by Dana Gilbertson)

Sometimes people give their time and love to a cause and are very quiet about it. Pastor Ed Mitchell was one of those devoted to helping people. At the recent Chesterton/Duneland Chamber luncheon, he was fondly remembered.

Those who knew him shared his stories of his generosity.

“Pastor Ed’s mission in life was to help others and he believed people can better themselves and their situations with a little help and encouragement. Caring came naturally, whether you met him at Sand Creek or Spring Valley Homeless Shelter, he treated all persons with equal respect and dignity.

“His place of work was more than Porter United Methodist Church, where he pastored a congregation and preached the life changing power of Jesus Christ. His sermons could be seen on any given day...perhaps at the gas station...buying a scruffy person a Pepsi, petting their dog, chatting about sports, but eventually addressing their addiction and where to find help.”

He delivered Meals on Wheels to lonely seniors, volunteered at Duneland Resale and his wife Linda often had to buy him another winter coat, hat and gloves, because he had given his away to someone who was cold.

“In Matthew 25, Jesus teaches ‘When you have done it unto one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it unto me.’

“Ed served his God and this community, by serving others.”

Posted 7/28/2005