The passing of Peter “Pan” Mitchell, a beloved friend and former coxswain and mechanic of The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station, has left the entire community in mourning. With a long and illustrious career with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Peter’s dedication to saving lives at sea was unwavering. From his early days as a traveling RNLI mechanic to his role as coxswain and mechanic, Peter’s courage and high standard of seamanship were recognized and celebrated. Join us as we remember the remarkable life and legacy of Peter Mitchell.
Peter Mitchell Obituary
Peter Mitchell, a beloved figure in The Lizard community, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and courage. Known as “Pan” to his friends, Peter Mitchell was a former coxswain and mechanic at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station. His recent demise has left a void in our hearts, and we mourn the loss of our dear friend.
Passing of Peter Mitchell
The news of Peter Mitchell’s passing has deeply saddened the entire community of The Lizard. Peter’s contributions to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) were invaluable, and his commitment to saving lives at sea was unwavering. As we reflect on his life and the impact he made, we remember him as a selfless individual who dedicated himself to the service of others.
Devoted Career with the RNLI
Peter Mitchell’s career with the RNLI spanned several decades, marked by unwavering dedication and exceptional service. Beginning as a traveling RNLI mechanic, Peter’s passion for the organization led him back to The Lizard in the late 1950s. He succeeded Maurice Stephens as the mechanic and played a pivotal role in the relocation of the lifeboat station to Kilcobben Cove in 1961.
Not only did Peter excel in his role as a mechanic, but he also took on the responsibility of coxswain in 1976 after Maurice “Bunny” Legge’s retirement. For twelve years, Peter served as both coxswain and mechanic, showcasing his exceptional seamanship and leadership skills. His dedication to the safety of others was recognized when he was awarded the Bronze Medal of the institution for his role in the rescue of the crew of the yacht “Bass” in 1984.
Peter Mitchell’s retirement in 1988 marked the end of an era at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station. His contributions and unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea will forever be remembered and cherished by the community he served so faithfully.
Peter Mitchell’s Role at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station
Peter Mitchell played a significant role at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station, leaving a lasting impact on the community and the organization. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea made him an invaluable member of the team.
Early Career as a Traveling RNLI Mechanic
Peter Mitchell’s journey with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) began as a traveling mechanic. His passion for the organization and his desire to make a difference led him to travel far and wide, ensuring that lifeboats were in optimal condition to carry out their life-saving missions. His expertise and attention to detail were evident even in the early stages of his career.
Successor to Maurice Stephens as Mechanic
After his travels, Peter Mitchell returned to The Lizard community in the late 1950s and took over the role of mechanic from Maurice Stephens. This transition marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station. Peter’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to the safety of others were evident in every aspect of his work.
Relocation of the Lifeboat Station
During Peter Mitchell’s tenure, The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station underwent a significant relocation. The station, previously situated at Polpeor or Lizard Point, was moved to its current location at Kilcobben Cove in 1961. Peter played a crucial role in this relocation, ensuring a smooth transition and the continued provision of life-saving services to those in need.
Role as Coxswain and Mechanic
Peter Mitchell’s dedication and expertise led him to take on the dual role of coxswain and mechanic in 1976, following the retirement of Maurice “Bunny” Legge. As coxswain, Peter was responsible for leading the lifeboat crew during rescue missions, displaying exceptional seamanship and leadership skills. Simultaneously, he continued to excel as a mechanic, ensuring that the lifeboats were always in top-notch condition.
Retirement and Succession
After a remarkable career spanning several decades, Peter Mitchell retired on June 5, 1988. His retirement marked the end of an era at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station. Philip Burgess succeeded him as the Coxswain, taking over the keys that Peter had held for so long. Peter’s retirement was a bittersweet moment for the community, as they bid farewell to a dedicated and respected figure who had saved countless lives throughout his career.
Award for Courage and Seamanship
Peter Mitchell’s exceptional courage and seamanship were recognized and honored during his time at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station. His unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea was exemplified in a remarkable rescue mission that led to a prestigious award.
Recognition for Rescuing the Crew of Yacht “Bass”
One particular incident that showcased Peter Mitchell’s bravery and skill was the rescue of the crew of the yacht “Bass.” In the face of a south-westerly near gale and treacherous sea conditions on September 3, 1984, Peter and his crew embarked on a daring mission to save the stranded sailors.
Their display of courage, determination, and high standard of seamanship during the rescue operation did not go unnoticed. As a testament to their exceptional efforts, Peter Mitchell was awarded the Bronze Medal of the institution. This prestigious recognition not only honored Peter’s individual bravery but also highlighted the collective dedication and expertise of the entire team at The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station.
This award serves as a reminder of Peter Mitchell’s unwavering commitment to the safety of others and his remarkable contributions to the RNLI. His actions during the rescue of the crew of the yacht “Bass” will forever be remembered as a testament to his courage and the values of the organization.
Peter Mitchell, former Coxswain/Mechanic of The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station, has passed away, leaving the community in mourning. Peter had a long and illustrious career with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), starting as a traveling mechanic and eventually becoming the coxswain and mechanic for the lifeboat. He played a crucial role in the relocation of the lifeboat station to its current location at Kilcobben Cove. Peter’s dedication and bravery were recognized when he was awarded the Bronze Medal of the institution for his role in a daring rescue mission. Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we remember our dear friend and colleague. Rest in peace, Peter Mitchell.
