42-time Traveler Art Mitchell Remembered for Irrepressible Spirit, Zest for Life
The Grand Circle family was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Art Mitchell, 83, a 42-time traveler and Group Leader from Toms River, New Jersey, on August 28, 2009.
A retired educator, Art served as an administrator in the Toms River School District for more than 30 years. An avid fan of food, fishing, and football, Art was also passionate about travel—and over the years he encouraged dozens of family members and friends to join him on more than 40 Grand Circle and OAT trips.
Art was also known for his enthusiastic commitment to his alter-ego: “Spots the Clown.” In fact, he would often bring his costume along in his suitcase, suiting up to make balloon animals for the children he met during his travels.
Grand Circle associates who worked closely with Art fondly recall the moments they spent with him. “He really loved life and made the most of every minute,” remembers Dave Lubchansky, Director of Traveler Relations. “Once, when I was out in Los Angeles on business, I met up with Art, who was an Elderhostel Program at the University of Judaism. We went to see the Hollywood Pops perform, then had a wonderful dinner together. He was a truly amazing person.”
Echoes Group Travel Account Representative Kathleen Janiak, “Art loved life.” She recalls flying to Trenton, New Jersey, and renting a car to drive to Art’s home, some 35 miles away, whenever the pair were planning a new trip for his group members. “I will always remember Art’s desire to get through our ‘business meetings’—which took place either at his kitchen table or aboard his small, Boston Whaler-style fishing boat—as quickly as possible, so that we could head down to Atlantic City. I don’t care much for casinos, or their buffets, but I always looked forward to making the trip with Art. He could make anything fun!
“Art was so much more than a client,” Kathleen continues. “He was also a trusted friend. He provided wonderful advice, sharing the many lessons he’d learned about life over the years. Art’s greatest lessons were always about family: There was never any doubt in his mind that family is the most precious gift life offers—and cause for celebration every day!”
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Art’s wife of 60 years, Collette; his seven children; 12 grandchildren; and his extended family and friends.