It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of long-time USATF official and Indiana Association board member Keith Mitchell, who passed away on Saturday (November 15) at the age of 93. Over the course of five decades, Mitchell helped shape our sport both in Indiana and across the nation — often serving side by side with his beloved wife Joanne, who preceded him in death just five months ago.
Keith dedicated 50 years to officiating, earning the respect of athletes, coaches, and fellow officials nationwide. Among his many achievements and accolades:
Worked the 1996 Olympic Games and 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta
Inducted into the USATF Officials Hall of Fame (2009)
Recipient of the Horace Crow Award (1997) for Outstanding Field-Event Official
Recipient of the Andy Bakjian Award (2006) for Outstanding Service
Recipient of the National Officials Committee Chair Award (2005) for dedication and leadership
Recipient of the USATF Indiana President’s Award (2017)
Recipient of the Marshall Goss Indiana Official of the Year
Served as USATF Indiana Vice President for several terms
Served as the USATF Indiana Officials Certification Chair from 1996–2016
Honored with the Keith Mitchell Award, given annually to Indiana’s outstanding field official
Keith’s leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to fairness elevated officiating standards locally and nationally. His influence will continue to be felt for generations.
Entombment: Saturday, Nov. 22 · 10:00 a.m. Garland Brook Cemetery – Columbus, Indiana Memorial Gathering: Saturday, Nov. 22 · 1:00–4:00 p.m. Jewell–Rittman Funeral Home 3855 25th Street, Columbus, IN 47203
Entombment: Saturday, Nov. 22 · 10:00 a.m. Garland Brook Cemetery – Columbus, Indiana
Memorial Gathering: Saturday, Nov. 22 · 1:00–4:00 p.m. Jewell–Rittman Funeral Home 3855 25th Street, Columbus, IN 47203
We invite Keith’s many friends, colleagues, athletes, and fellow officials to join in honoring his life, legacy, and immeasurable contributions to our sport.
Our thoughts are with his family and the entire officiating community. He will be deeply missed.