Michael Earl Mitchell

VASSALBORO – Michael Earl Mitchell, 66, passed away after a brief and brave battle with cancer on April 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and partner of 22 years, Tara, and his two youngest daughters, with whom he shared an especially deep and meaningful bond and his son-in-law.

He was born on June 13, 1959, in Dover-Foxcroft, to Gloria (Cox) and Roger Mitchell. Michael grew up in Calais, where his love for natural beauty, fishing, and the simple life helped shape the man he became. Throughout his life, he carried with him many cherished memories and lifelong friendships. He began playing the trumpet as a young man, and this passion led him to pursue music education at the University of Maine at Augusta and the University of Miami.

Music remained a constant throughout his life. Michael was a founding member and music arranger for the Novel Jazz Septet, dedicating over 22 years to the group. During that time, he arranged more than 340 charts by Ellington and Strayhorn with remarkable ease and artistry. The members of the Septet became like brothers to him, and he continued to share his love for jazz and performance for as long as he was able.

Michael also devoted his life to helping others. He earned his master’s degree from the NYU School of Social Work and began his career as a psychotherapist in 1986. Over the years, he served as CEO of Crisis & Counseling before ultimately returning to psychotherapy, where his natural gift for connecting with and supporting others truly shined. Michael was a talented and compassionate therapist, deeply respected and beloved by colleagues and clients alike, always striving to help others lead productive and fulfilling lives.

He and Tara made their home in Vassalboro, where they shared their lives with their beloved dogs, Bear and Murphy Brown. Together, they built a life grounded in love, compassion, and dedication. Michael loved to cook and entertain, travel, learn and fly-fish.

Michael loved his wife; he was always game to help her rescue an animal or bring food or gifts to a stranger in need. Michael’s impact on his family and friends, as well as the community will be deeply felt and long remembered. Special memories for Michael and his wife include meeting the Johnsons in the Bahamas and joining them on their sailboat and traveling anywhere from the Big Eddy to Europe with the Rands.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Tara Karczewski-Mitchell; his four daughters, Jessi Mitchell; Alyssa Wood and her husband Fred, along with Maxwell (whom Michael helped raise) and Delphineas; Tiffany Riggin and her husband Bret, along with their children Olivia, Cy, Autumn, Reagan, Micki, and Piper; and Samantha and her husband, David Farago, along with their children Brayden Michael and Ellie Mae. Michael adored being a father and papa. He loved being involved in their lives and was so proud to watch his grandchildren perform in a dance recital, on the ice or simply be in their presence. He is survived by his sister, Cheryl Foster, her husband Peter, and their family. Mike is also survived by his wife’s family who loved him deeply as well.

Michael lived with quiet strength and profound humility. Some people stand quietly behind the spotlight, but it is their heart and dedication that create the melodies that touch the world. This sentiment captured the essence of his life—one of deep impact, compassion, and artistry. Michael’s legacy will live on in the lives that he touched and those that knew and loved him.

The family would like to thank Dr. Tchekmedyian from Maine Health, Andwell Health Partners and those special family and friends who dedicated themselves, in both time and financial contributions to the Mitchell family during this incredibly difficult time.

At Michael’s request, there will be no funeral service.