David (Dave) R. Mitchell
April 2, 1953 - November 22, 2025
David (Dave) R. Mitchell age 72, of Elkton, MD, passed away peacefully and into the arms of his Lord Jesus, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, November 22, 2025.
Born in Wilmington, DE on April 2, 1953, he was a son of the late Howard A. Mitchell and Mary Jane (Dandoy) Mitchell. Dave had an extensive career in the optical and contact lens field. David trained at Bausch and Lomb to master the fabrication of eyeglasses. He also attended the John Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute where he earned his National Contact Lens certification. Dave worked as an optician, working at many different optical companies and for ophthalmology practices specializing in special custom fit contact lenses. He worked for The HMO of Delaware, the first staff model HMO in Delaware. He served in several capacities over his 13 years there including supervisor of optical services.
Dave had a passion for trains and gave his time as a volunteer at the Marshall Steam Museum in Yorklyn, DE. He was proud to serve as a member of the development team for Gauge 1 Live Steam Railroad to be created at the Yorklyn Valley Railroad. David also loved classic cars. He owned several of his own. He was a member of the British Car Club of Delaware and the Brandywine Motorsport Club. He took great pride in organizing rallies and events for both clubs. David loved the outdoors including hiking, swimming, and watching the wildlife. He also enjoyed fishing, especially fly fishing.
Dave is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Peg (Pennypacker) Mitchell; children, Edward Mitchell and Jessica Creek (Josh); beloved grandchildren, Reagan, Roslynn, Joshua, James, and Jacob; sisters, Pat Cox, Donna Skomorucha, brother, Howard Mitchell (AnnMarie); and many precious nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his daughter, Nikki Paynter.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EP) of Newark, 308 Possum Park Road, Newark, DE 19711; followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at EP. Inurnment will be held privately at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dave’s memory to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online by clicking here; or to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Newark, at the address listed above or online by clicking here.
Jessica Creek
We couldn’t have asked or better father and grandfather. You are deeply loved by everyone. We miss you but this isn’t goodbye it’s see you later! I love you Dad ❤️
Ruth Bishop
My deepest sympathy to you and your family, Peg. May you feel the nearness of God at this difficult time.
With sisterly affection, Ruth
Russ & Lyn Fox
Our hearts go out to the Mitchell family! We met Dave when he became a volunteer at the Marshall Steam Museum. Dave put in a lot of time helping with the outdoor model G scale railroad and attending monthly public events. We all had some great conversations, great laughter and most importantly a great friendship!
Dave… you will be missed!
Russ & Lyn Fox
Robin & Alexis Griffith
Our sincere condolences for the passing of Dave. Although our interaction as neighbors was just a wave or brief conversation with each other when mowing our yards. It was very apparent that Dave was a good man. I wish that we had gotten to know him better. Again our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.
Angela Rice
Peg, the loss of your husband and love of your life, precious memories, the tears, the laughter, the joy will not fade, just pure faithfulness of the two becoming one, forever. Prayers and blessings to you and the family. Love Angela
Patti Tucker
My deepest condolences for the passing of my friend David. It’s hard to believe he began as my favorite contact lens specialist in the 80’s and grew to be my friend. We reconnected at the Elks Lodge crab feasts with the Burgs & then at again EPC VBS when he brought his grandsons. He was a man bigger than life and gave the best hugs. I will miss him but I rest in the thought he is no longer in pain and at home with our loving God. I know we will meet again. 🙏💔
Janet williams
My condolences to Mitchell family. We were all neighbors growing up in Ardencroft in the 60’s and 70’s. I ran into Dave a few times more recently during Arden events and will miss seeing him. I was happy that he had so much success in his adult life and he looked so happy in the photos that were posted. I’m sorry I didn’t make it to the service, I didn’t hear about it until later. RIP Dave!