Daniel Oliver Mitchell

Daniel Oliver Mitchell, 87, of Odessa, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, in Odessa, Texas.

Daniel was born on January 23, 1937, to Mary and Wilton (“Buster”) Mitchell in Gladewater, TX. After graduating from Albany High School in 1956, he moved to Odessa to attend Odessa College focusing his studies on chemistry while working at a local chemical company. He completed his BS in chemistry at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin in 1977.

On December 20th, 1957, Daniel married his high school sweetheart, Sandra. They started their life together and had three children, Todd, Traci and Toby.

Daniel worked for El Paso Products, in both El Paso, TX. and Odessa, TX. for 25 years. He also started a machine shop business during this time. He then worked for El Paso Natural Gas in Jal, NM. for 8 years where he was the lab manager. Upon his 1st retirement, he started his own business, Mitchell Analytical Laboratory, and enjoyed the challenges it presented. 

He retired at age 70 but continued to be active keeping his 1934 Chevy pickup running, spending time at his cabin in Ruidoso, NM. and making sure he had an ample supply of Blue Bell homemade vanilla ice cream. It would be remiss not to mention how he enjoyed working with his twin brother David on VWs in his backyard shop.

He was active in his church, teaching Sunday School classes, leading a group of young boys (Royal Rangers), and being available when needed. He was intentional in leading his family to know the Lord. He exemplified Mark 12:30 - You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.

Daniel was preceded in death by his mother, Mary; father, Wilton; stepmother, Lou; sister, Eloise Wilkins; sister, Pat Harrington; and brother, Richmond “Bud” Mitchell. 

He is survived by his wife, Sandra; son, Todd and his wife Paula of Odessa, TX; daughter, Traci Crawford and her husband Lynn of Ruidoso, NM; son, Toby and Mitzi of Odessa, TX; grandchildren, Kailee Lockette and husband Brendon, Kameron and his wife Megan; great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Lawson, Lyla and Korrie; twin brother, David and his wife Ruby; sister, Anna Hogan; sister, Linda Herron; and brother, James and wife Darlene.

Funeral services will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home on December 31, 2024, at 2:00 PM. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Odessa. To send condolences to the family, please sign their guest book at www.sunsetodessa.com.