Catalina Island News

Loss of Harbor Patrol Officer Timothy Mitchell

2015-01-01
City of Avalon

On December 30, 2014, the City of Avalon lost Harbor Patrol Officer Tim Mitchell, a hero and beloved member of the City family, who gave the ultimate sacrifice as he valiantly served the community defending life and property.

Service for Harbor Patrol Officer Timothy Mitchell

Tim was on duty as a Harbor Patrol Assistant, working from a patrol boat, trying to protect residents, visitors and boats that were being battered by the fierce winds and waves that quickly and mercilessly descended upon Avalon Harbort.  He died as he tried to save the King Neptune, a boat upon which he had also served as a Dive Instructor here on Catalina Island for approximately the past 10 years.

Nearly 40 years old, Tim was a native of New Zealand, but a recent United States Citizen.  He held joint degrees in Religious Studies and Sociology, and was an accomplished musician, playing multiple instruments.

Tim recently joined the Harbor Department in May of this year.  However, he had served the City for the past five years as a Reserve Firefighter.  In addition to his City family, Tim also enjoyed a close, extended family at ScubaLuv - home of the King Neptune - where he worked as a Dive Instructor, and was looked up to by all of his peers.  He was a "2nd father" to Bob and Tina Kennedy's children (Bob and Tina being the owners of ScubaLuv, of course).

Tim leaves behind a mother, father, two brothers and Michelle Rodriguez, his girlfriend.  He will be missed by all those who knew him.  Our condolences to Tim's family - both biological and extended.  Once we are aware when services will be held for Tim - and if anyone outside of family is invited to attend any of them - we will let you know.

Please join me in acknowledging the tragic loss of one of our own family members - this hero, Tim Mitchell - and his ultimate sacrifice in serving the City of Avalon.    

Thank you, EVERYONE, for your prayers and condolences. For donations to the Mitchell Family, please make checks payable to the Avalon Harbor Employees Association, PO Box 1085, Avalon, CA 90704.

By Avalon Harbor Master Brian Bray