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MITCHEM -- Lt.Col. James Albert Mitchem U.S. Army (RET), 79, a long time resident of Albuquerque, was born March 17, 1931 in New Albany, Indiana, and departed this life on Friday, January 14, 2011 following a short illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Veronica; seven children, Roxy Mitchem-Horn and husband Michael, James Mitchem, Jr. and wife Jacqueline, Sylvia Crowder and husband Larry, Michael Mitchem, Steven Mitchem, Gail Overton, and Phillip Mitchem and wife Lisa; 18 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three sisters, Wilma, Mae, and Charlotte; and two brothers, Robert and Leon. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and four brothers. Lt. Col. Mitchem served 20 years in the United States Army. He traveled the world with his family, and served two tours in Korea and one tour in Vietnam. His military citations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, and several other awards and decorations. He had a wonderful sense of humor and never met a stranger. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. "Farewell Papa, we love you." Friends may visit French ~ Lomas Chapel on Wednesday, January 19, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church 4020 Lomas Blvd. NE on Thursday, January 20, 2011. Interment will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m., with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Buffalo Soldiers of New Mexico at #2 Hendrix Lane, Los Lunas, NM 87031 or the African American Catholic Community Scholarship Fund at 4000 St. Joseph's NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120. Please visit our online guestbook for Lt.Col. Mitchem at: www.RememberTheirStory.com Lovingly Pre-planned at FRENCH 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500
        Published on: Tue January 18, 2011