SALINA - Elizabeth Ruth (Hartner) Mitchell, 100, of Salina was called to her eternal home on Friday, November 6, 2020. She was born April 21, 1920 to William and Minnie (Burger) Hartner at their rural farm southwest of Clay Center, KS. She was baptized on May 2, 1920 and confirmed June 18, 1933; both at Zion Lutheran Church located then Southwest of Clay Center.
Elizabeth received her elementary education at Eight Mile and North Exeter Schools in Clay County and graduated from Clay County Community High School in Clay Center in May 1937. She then attended Kansas St. College completing her teaching certificate and taught several years in rural schools until her marriage in 1940.
On August 17, 1940 she married Everette J. Mitchell of Clay Center. They first met in her father's pasture where many competitive baseball games were played in those days. They were married for over 55 years. To this union three children were born: James Stanley, June Elaine and William Sidney.
Elizabeth was active in both churches she faithfully attended during her life at St. Paul’s Lutheran in Clay Center and St. Mark's Lutheran in Salina. That included teaching Sunday School, serving on the Altar Guild, playing the organ, serving in women's Friendship Circle and she was a Grandma to all children she came in contact with. She left a lasting impression with all her family members for the meals she cooked and the games she played with everyone.
She is survived by daughter June Sexton (Walter) of Lawrence, KS, two sons; James Stanley (Judi) of Clay Center, KS and William Sidney (Linda) of Topeka, KS; six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Everette, a stillborn daughter, Rebecca, sister Grace and brothers Roy and Edward.
There will be no visitation or funeral service. Burial of ashes with a brief service will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, November 13th at Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, KS. Social distancing is requested.
Memorials are suggested to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Salina, KS; Nebraska Lutheran High School in Waco, Nebraska; or Donors Choice; all in care of Ryan Mortuary, Salina, Kansas.