Barbara T. Mitchell, 89

Barbara T. Mitchell, 89, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, went to join her Lord and Savior on Oct. 11, 2024. Barbara was born in Keene, N.H., on Sept. 21, 1935, to Robert and Albertina Parker Traquair.

Barbara attended Keene High School in Keene, N.H., and is remembered by her high school classmates as always being sensitive, kind and supportive. High school friendships truly lasted her lifetime, and as one good friend recently shared, when walking home from school, they loved to say, “Let’s laugh the whole way home!” and they did!  While at Keene High, Barbara shared this zest for life, singing a capella with the high school choir. Upon graduation, Barbara moved to Boston and attended Ritner’s Floral Design School, later spending many years designing floral arrangements at Hilton’s Flowers and Gifts in San Bernardino, Calif.

Barbara met the love of her life, Frederick Mitchell, during his Air Force deployment in Springfield, Mass., meeting at a YWCA dance. When his deployment ended, Fred was honorably discharged and returned to his home in San Bernardino, Calif. Only a few days later, Fred realized he really didn’t want to live without Barbara. Just 20 years old, she bravely flew across the country, and they were married in Las Vegas, Nev., on Dec. 10, 1955. Her lovely soprano voice was often heard drifting out from the kitchen window as she immersed herself in raising her young children and becoming a truly wonderful cook and homemaker. Fred and Barbara were married for 66 years and had three children: Candice Palmberg, Karen Sue and Gary Mitchell.

Barbara is survived by her loving daughter, Candice, of Rathdrum, Idaho; son Gary of Lake Oswego, Ore.; and grandsons Ryan Palmberg of Spokane Valley, Wash., and Kevin Palmberg of Post Falls, Idaho, who were absolutely the light of her life. Nothing gave Grammy Barbie a more beautiful smile than spending time with her “young men!”

Barbara had a favorite saying, “It’s tough getting old, don’t do it. I’m living my 90th year!” and she did so with passion. Barbara will be most remembered for the selfless love and dedication she shared endlessly with her daughter, son-in-law Greg and her grandsons. 

We will miss you, Gram! Love you!