William Ransome "Mitch" Mitchum Iii

William Ransome Mitchum III passed away in Portland on Nov. 28.

“Mitch” was the former Astoria Public Works director, local property developer and a prolific community volunteer.

After serving 38 years in the U.S. Navy, with tours in Vietnam and duty assignments around the world as a civil engineer, he and his wife, Toni, moved to Astoria in 1994.

Mitch leaves behind five children and 10 grandchildren.

His life of service to the U.S. and his dedication to the betterment of Astoria stands as a proud legacy.

A viewing has already been held at Caldwell’s Luce-Layton Mortuary.

A Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church on Grand Avenue, followed by a celebration of life in the McTavish Room at the Liberty Theater from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Pursuant to Mitch’s wishes, the family has asked that donations be directed towards the Astoria Warming Center project for the homeless. Checks can be made to the Grace Episcopal Church Jubilee Ministries/Warming Center, 1545 Franklin Ave., Astoria OR 97103.