Mitchell, Graham:
An organizer, a strategist, a positive force for change, Graham died of lung cancer on October 8, 2021 in Waterloo, Ontario. The joy of Graham’s life was his family and community. He died as he lived, surrounded by the love and care of his family and friends. He is survived by his partner Deanna Yerichuk, his two sons Emmett and Milo, his parents (Janice and Cameron Mitchell), his middle brother Warren, younger brother Darren (Delayne), and nephews Deklen and Kyden, and of course, countless friends, colleagues, and extended family who knew and loved him.
Graham was born in Lestock, Saskatchewan and grew up in Kelliher, northeast of Regina. He built community and made deep connections with people across Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario and beyond, bringing his family, his friends, and their families together in every part of his life. As a father, friend, mentor, advisor and colleague, his superpower was seeing greatness in people, even if they couldn’t see it themselves, and helping to nurture it, opening doors and enabling connections.
Graham made good trouble wherever he lived. He was able to see through the noise and step outside of his own perspective to name things as they really were and to find solutions for problems big and small. His leadership style allowed him to connect with so many people; he somehow managed to lead and support, without the need or interest to be in the spotlight. Graham was especially gifted at mentoring. He knew when to walk beside, when to gently nudge from behind, and when to step out front to model the way. If you were ever intimidated by his brilliance, you’d quickly find that his giggle, his big heart, and his humour would remind you he cared about who you were, not your title or position in life.
Graham and his partner Deanna shared an epic love for over two decades—it was a rocky start but once they figured their own shit out, they became life companions and best friends. Graham always boasted about Deanna’s accomplishments and shared her music, artistry and teaching successes with anyone who would listen.
Similarly, Graham was devoted to his kids Emmett and Milo. While Graham was known for his unbelievably strong work ethic, he never lost sight of his family as his single-most top priority. Graham would slow his pace to be with his family, whether to build trains with Emmett or coach Milo’s basketball team (despite not playing basketball!), or to prepare suppers with equal parts love and skill.
Graham was a passionate advocate for gender justice, social justice, and environmental justice. His activism began in undergrad with his work at the University of Alberta ual Assault Centre, an experience that set in motion his commitment to social justice. He went on to work with progressive politicians at all levels of government, including becoming chief of staff to the Ministers of Energy and Finance in Alberta’s first NDP government, and working as an Executive Assistant for Toronto city councillor Janet Davis for many years. Graham’s work outside of politics was just as exceptional, contributing to the growth of the Broadbent Institute, Toronto Environmental Alliance, and Lead Now. Most recently in Waterloo, Graham was Director of Communications and Issues Management at Wilfrid Laurier University, and in the short year he was there—working entirely remotely through the pandemic—he made a significant impact on his colleagues, many of whom now ask themselves WWGD: what would Graham do? And even with this demanding university position, Graham remained committed to making change locally in the community, serving on the board of the SHORE Centre (formerly Planned Parenthood).
Graham’s charm, wit, generosity, humility and humour were clear to everyone. Whether he was leading a team for one of the many progressive political organizations he worked with, biking with Deanna across the city to see a band he loved, staying up all night to smoke a mouth-watering brisket for family and friends, or renovating the bathroom because he wanted the challenge, Graham’s love for life and commitment to doing his best shone through.
Our communities have lost a great heart and voice. To mark his passing, we encourage you to cook and share delicious food, listen to the music you love, hang out with people you love, and work for equity in your community with love, hope, and optimism.
A private memorial service will be held to honour Graham’s life. Extended family and friends are invited to join the family via livestream at 3:00 PM EST on Thursday, October 14, 2021 at www.henrywalser.com/live-streaming.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be offered by donating to a memorial scholarship that is currently being established under Graham’s name. Details to be released at a later date.
Visit www.henrywalser.com for Graham’s memorial.
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Friday October 8th 2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Graham Mitchell Friday October 8th 2021..
Décès pour la Ville:Kitchener, Province: Ontario