Duncan H.G. Mitchell

In Loving Memory of Duncan Mitchell (October 21, 1962 - September 5, 2023)
With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Duncan Mitchell, a man full of life who was not just a loving husband but also an adored father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and role model.  Duncan brought joy to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He left us tragically at the young age of 60 while doing something he loved: riding his bike along Lake Shore Drive in the heart of the magnificent city of Chicago.

His Life

Born on October 21, 1962, in Catterick, England, to Mary and David Mitchell, he brought laughter and happiness into the lives of his family and friends from the very beginning. His dry humor made us both happy and occasionally embarrassed in the best way. 

Duncan's thirst for knowledge led him on a global educational journey. As a young chorister at Wells Cathedral School, he discovered his love for music and the arts. He later pursued higher education at The University of Manchester, earning a BSc degree in Chemical Engineering. His inquisitive mind also led him to the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where he earned an MBA. 

Duncan's fulfilling career began with his time "on the road" at UOP, where he was a Marketing Engineer on worldwide oil refinery projects. He later moved to McKinsey & Company as an Engagement Manager responsible for planning, executing, and delivering on consulting projects. His latest position as Global Decarbonization Business Leader at KBC encompassed all aspects of his prior work, including sustainability and engineering. He was well known for working tirelessly to protect the environment and create a better world for future generations.

His Family

Duncan's greatest joy in life was his family. He loved his family “the big much.” He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Maura. He was the love of Maura’s life and was her best friend. Together, they had three children: Cameron, Tristan, and Lauren. He was always there to support, encourage, and share in the triumphs and challenges of his children's lives.

As a son, Duncan was a source of pride and joy to his parents, Mary and David Mitchell. His passion for family did not just include his spouse, children, and parents.

He adored his brother, Jonathan (Addie) and his sister, Elizabeth, as well as their families. 

He was a cherished son-in-law to Maura’s parents, Maureen and John Keyes, and brother-in-law to Maura's siblings, Kathleen (Joseph) Nelligan, Ann (Kent) Ebersole, Kevin (Karen) Keyes, Colleen (Jonathan) Kronstein, Sheilah (Thomas) Schmitzer, and Brigid (John) Fitzgerald. A multitude too great to name of nieces, nephews, and cousins also celebrate his life and legacy. His warm and caring presence was a comfort to all.

His Passions

Duncan was a devoted follower of the English Premier League, and his heart belonged to Everton. He cheered for his team with unwavering loyalty, and the family could often be heard yelling, "Come On Ya Blues!" during matches because, inevitably, they weren't playing up to expectations. His passion for playing football and supporting Everton was a bond that united the family in joy and frustration, and those memories will forever echo in the Mitchell household.

Duncan's love of music, poetry, and nature made him a true Renaissance man. He never missed an
opportunity to play his music in the house, even when it was unsolicited, and he often serenaded his family and friends with his favorite songs. He also could be found at Poetry Slam at the Green Mill, where he would read poems from his poetry book, “Poems by a Stream.” His appreciation for the arts enriched the lives of those around him.

Duncan had a deep love for nature and sustainability. He enjoyed bird walks, watching monarch butterflies, running, and biking in nature. These passions meant that most weekends and family vacations were spent doing one of these activities.

His Legacy

While he may have left us too soon, Duncan's memory will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.  His love and zest for life will continue to inspire us to embrace each day with the same enthusiasm and joy he did. In his memory, let us honor him by finding miracles in the mundane, sharing laughter with loved ones, and exploring the world.
Spread the joy and party hard!

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Sierra Club, which reflects Duncan’s passion for conservation of nature.

A visitation will be held Thursday September 14, 2023 3:00pm- 8:00pm at Cooney Funeral Home located at 625 Busse Hwy. Park Ridge. . Prayers at the funeral home at 12:00 noon on Friday September 15, 2023 going to St. Paul of the Cross Church in Park Ridge for 12:30pm mass. Info at www.cooneyfuneralhome.com  (847) 685-1002.  The service will be livestreamed at, http://www.youtube.com//c/StPauloftheCrossChurch