Joseph Charles Mitcho's Obituary
Joseph Charles Mitcho, affectionately known as Joe, 84, passed away on December 5, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born November 11, 1941, in Girard, Pennsylvania, Joe was the beloved son of Joseph Mitcho and Helene Yugovich.
Joe grew up in Girard, a small town west of Erie. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock State College in 1963, later completing a master’s degree in education at Georgia State University and a Ph.D. in Human Resource Development from Oklahoma State University—a testament to his passion for learning.
In January 1964, Joe entered the United States Air Force, graduating from Officer Candidate School as a Second Lieutenant. He served with distinction as a munitions officer, including a tour in Vietnam in 1966. His military career earned him the rank of Captain and the Bronze Star Medal. Joe remained deeply proud of his service and a true patriot throughout his life.
After retiring from the Air Force in 1969, Joe began a successful career in human resources, holding leadership roles with Brunswick Corporation, Zebco, Yuba, Cooper Manufacturing, and later in the oilfield services industry with Baker Hughes and Wood Group. Known as a trusted listener, negotiator, and mentor, Joe touched countless lives through his work.
Joe married Patricia Guadagnino in 1964, and together they raised two beloved sons, Doug and Brad. In 2001, he married Rena Cook in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, beginning a cherished chapter of companionship and shared adventures. Rena embraced Joe’s family as her own, and their love was a source of joy and strength.
He was a man of quiet strength and steady presence—stoic when he needed to be, but always ready with a sharp wit and a warm laugh. Joe found joy in the simple pleasures: crossword puzzles, the company of dogs, good conversations with good people, and most of all, time spent with his family.
Joe will be remembered for his kindness, his unwavering loyalty, and the gentle humor that endeared him to everyone who knew him. He taught those around him the value of perseverance, humility, and love without condition.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Rena Cook; sons Doug Mitcho and wife Jennifer, and Brad Mitcho and partner Sara Collins; grandchildren Jordan and Maxwell Mitcho; siblings Paula Dziminski, Gregg Mitcho (wife Betsy), and Dorothy Navarra (husband Ernie); along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.
Visitation will be held Friday, December 12th, 2025 from 5-7 PM
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on December 13 at 12:30 PM at Floral Haven in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His legacy of service, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Interment will follow at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens - Veterans Extension II
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