Joseph James Mitzel, 76 of Spearfish, passed away peacefully on December 27th, 2023.

Joseph was born in Minot, ND on July 22nd, 1947 to Joe and Delores Mitzel and spent his early years helping on the family farm near Minot. Joseph spent three wonderful years enrolled in Ann Carlson School in Jamestown. In the 4th and 5th grade Joseph learned to overcome his disabilities and went on to accomplish great things in life! Following this he moved to Esmond where he graduated from high school.

After high school Joseph moved to Omaha NE. He worked with Good Will where he learned many trades. In his mid-20's he moved to Grand Forks, ND where he spent many years. He was employed at The Vocational Rehab Center for 25 years! It was here in Grand Forks where Joseph became very skilled at blackjack. He often joked that blackjack was how he intended to pay his rent. The people of Grand Forks knew Joseph for his kindhearted generosity. He frequently gave rides to the residents of Grand Forks who could not get around on their own. Everyone knew him for his charismatic actions and infectious smile.

In the fall of 2016, Joseph met Jill Phillips and Rocksann Weiby. Joseph immediately found a place in his heart for these two. The three formed an unbreakable lifelong bond and friendship. Joseph loved these two ladies and considered them to be his sisters. Through these two he was able to spend the last remaining years of his mother's life by her side.

Joseph's proudest accomplishment was being nominated the president of Resident Council at First Care Living Center. Joseph spoke for those he felt did not have a voice. He was honored and proud to represent his fellow residents. Another thing he held near to his heart was his church community. Joseph was a proud member of the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Esmond, ND for many years.

Joseph is survived by his sisters Jill Phillips (Belle Fourche, SD), Rocksann Weiby (Fosston MN); his brothers Roger (Bismark, ND), Glenn (Bismark, ND), and Darrell (Esmond ND), also his uncles Jim Steifel (Wisconsin), and Reuben Streifel (Spokane WA).

He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Delores.

Graveside services for Joseph will take place in Esmond, ND at St. Boniface Catholic Cemetary, July 12th, 2024, at 3:00pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Ann Carlson School in Jamestown ND.