Mitchell, Paul Anthony August 10, 1920 - March 11, 2017 Paul Anthony Mitchell, a college All American former professional football player and University of Minnesota Hall of Fame recipient has died at the age of 96. At the time of his death, he was the 6th oldest living former profession-al football player. Mitchell was one of Bernie's boys and named to many All-Big Ten and All American teams and was on the Minnesota '41 National Championship Team under the leadership of coach Bernie Bierman. Mitchell was thought to be one of the finest tackles in Golden Gopher football history. He was known for his defensive performances and block-ing punts. He blocked two punts on two successive plays against Buffalo, a rarity in football. He played in two college All-Star games; famed sportswriter Grantland Rice named him to Collier's All-American squad; and in '41 was voted the Gopher' most valuable player and captain. He was able to go back to Minnesota for Minnesota's captain's dinner. For years, he was the oldest living captain and honored to carry the torch. Mitchell graduated from the University of Minnesota with a mechanical engineering degree and married his college sweetheart, U of M cheerleader and Miss Minnesota Ingrid Vallo. His wife, Ingrid was also a Powers model. Mitchell served in the Navy during World War ll as a Lieutenant. In '46, he signed a contract to play for Los Angeles Dons and then two years later played for the New York Yankees in '48 and '49 and with the New York Yanks of the N.F.L in '50, '51 and '52. Paul had said that whatever success he achieved in sports it was the result of many great coaches he played for including Pete Guzy of Edison High School and Bernie Bierman. In California, he was employed by Goodyear Tire between Pro football seasons and then when he left football he went on to work for the Garrett Corporation (now AlliedSignal/Honeywell) where he retired in '85 as a vice president. In 1985, he founded Palos Verdes Enterprises Corporation as CEO. The real estate company purchased and managed apartment buildings, mobile home parks and mini warehouses. Paul's parents had immigrated from Lithuania and he grew up in northeastern Minneapolis. At Edison High School where he was a Hall of Fame recipient, his strength and speed helped the Tommies capture the city's football championship in 1939. He loved the game of football and had so much passion for the game. Paul is now again with the love of his life Ingrid who he was married to for almost 75 years. He is survived by his son Paul, Eric and his daughter Heidi and her husband Dan Springer their children Erika, Britta, Katrina and the grandson named after him Mitchell. He is also survived by his brother Joseph Biernet and grandson Matt. He will be greatly missed.