Jakie “Jake” Lee Mitchell, 86, of Salina, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Jake was born on November 3, 1939, in Salina, Kansas, to Neil and Esther (Dorman) Mitchell. Born hard of hearing, Jake never allowed that challenge to define him. Instead, it helped shape the determined, hardworking, and resilient man he became.

A 1957 graduate of Salina Central High School, Jake began his career in metal fabrication shortly after graduation. The trade quickly became his life’s calling. He spent the final 32 years of his career at PPI, later known as Coperion K-Tron. Beyond his professional work, Jake was an accomplished welder and fabricator who completed countless projects from his home workshop. He was especially well known among local car enthusiasts for his Heliarc welding skills and the many lasting friendships he built through his work.

Jake believed in giving back to others. As a dedicated O-negative blood donor, he reached the remarkable milestone of donating 30 gallons of blood during his lifetime. He also embraced an active lifestyle, riding more than 5,000 miles on his bicycle in 2010 alone and maintaining his longtime membership at the YMCA.

In 2013, Jake survived a serious automobile accident that left him in intensive care for three weeks. Following his recovery and rehabilitation at Presbyterian Manor, he chose to remain there in the independent living community. He called Presbyterian Manor home for the past 12 years, where he continued to enjoy the friendships and connections he made throughout his life.

Jake was preceded in death by his parents, Neil and Esther Mitchell.

He is survived by his brother, Owen Mitchell, and his nieces, Julie Mitchell, Diane Gutierrez, and Lori Ramos, all of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Jake is also remembered by special friends Arlon Jones and Lloyd Jones of Salina, who were like brothers to him. Their friendship was a treasured part of his life.

Honoring Jake’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salina Presbyterian Manor Good Samaritan Fund.

Jake will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, craftsmanship, loyalty to his friends, and determination to live life to the fullest despite the challenges he faced. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his work, his kindness, and his enduring friendships.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.carlsonfh.net or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.

Arrangements by Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home.