Bob Mitchell, long time California turkey grower, passes away

Bob Mitchell , 4th generation farmer in Elk Grove, California, passed away peacefully at Briarwood care facility in Sacramento, California on Thursday October 22, 2015. He was 87. Bob was born on the ranch in Elk Grove to Joseph and Gertrude Mitchell on April 7,1928,  the youngest of 8 brothers and sisters. He grew up working in the hop and bean fields and milking the family dairy cows in the mid 1930’s and into the 40’s. Upon his father’s death, he soon sold the dairy cattle and started raising his first turkeys in the fall of 1949. Prior to that date, much of the family hired their services, New York dressing many small flocks of turkeys around the area. He signed his first contract with Ralston Purina in 1950 and remained a grower throughout his life. Son Ken continues the turkey operation to this day, its 66th year. Bob enjoyed fishing and hunting with friends and family and had great admiration for the environment and what it offered. Bob is survived by his wife Carol of 49 years, children Ken (Charlotte) Mitchell of Elk Grove and Brenda (Eric) VanDenbos of Shawnee, KS, and grandchildren Austin, J.C., Will, Kelly and Tyler. Services will be at Herberger Family Elk Grove Funeral Chapel on Friday November 13 at 11 a.m. in Old Town Elk Grove and a gathering following at the Masonic Lodge. Private internment with family will follow.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made  in care of Mitchell Family to Elk Grove FFA , 9800 Elk Grove Florin Rd., Elk Grove, CA 95624; or Sacramento Farm Bureau Foundation, 8970 Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, benefiting Ag student scholarships.