Montpelier, VT Howard William Mitchell, 87, died on Tuesday, July 29, 2014, at The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndonville, VT. He was born in 1926, in Philadelphia, the son of Howard Morton and Mabel Louise (Roberts) Mitchell. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, until his honorable discharge in 1946. Howard graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia University, in 1956. Howard had a successful career as a city planner, working first for the City of New York, and then in the Department of Housing and Community Development, for the state of Vermont. He had many interests, particularly enjoying classical music, especially opera, beekeeping, and gardening, and was an avid swimmer, canoeist, and cross-country skier. He was a man of great energy and many talents, exceptionally skillful in wood craftsmanship. Through his wide range of activities and accomplishments, he led a full, productive life. He is survived by his wife, Irene Mitchell, and three children, Brian, Tara, and Sean Mitchell. Arrangements are in the care of Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home.