ESCONDIDO—Albert Deward Mitchell, born September 8, 1934, in Wheeler, Texas, died on Thursday, Nov. 4, in Escondido surrounded by his children. Mitchell, who went by his middle name, Deward, was the youngest of 10 children born to Neutral and Pearl (Kissee) Mitchell. The family moved to California in 1943, settling in Compton where he was a member of the 1952 CIF Championship basketball team, going undefeated for three straight seasons. After a stint in the Army during the Korean War, he went on to receive his degree in accounting, passing his boards on the first try and later earning his CPA designation. He was a lifetime masters bridge player, an avid reader and sports fans.

In 1959, Deward married his wife, Faye. They moved to Escondido in 1965 where they raised their family and enjoyed a large and close group of friends. The ultimate family man, he never missed a moment of his children’s athletic games, plays or events. After his semiretirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, nurturing and supporting them in the same fashion as his own children.

Deward was preceded in death by his wife, Faye. He is survived by his children, Gary and Julie Mitchell, Susan and Michael Mathai, and Andrew Mitchell; and his grandchildren, Mitchell, Charlotte Mathai, Gigi and Axel Mitchell.

The family will hold an informal gathering to celebrate and honor Deward’s life close to the Christmas holiday so that all family members can attend. For more email dewardsmemorial@gmail.com. The family will respond with details when the date has been finalized. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers, to Veteran’s Friend, 711 Norwynn Ln., Fallbrook, Calif. 92028. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com.