Brynhild "Beo" Signy Mitchell

Munising            Brynhild Signy Oas Mitchell, better known to relatives and friends as Aunt "Beo" or "Beo," died on Friday evening, January 18, 2013 at the Superior Health Haven in Munising.  She was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on November 24, 1903 to Peter Albert and Signe (Windsand) Oas.  The family moved to Lansing early in 1904 and then moved to Munising in the fall of 1908.  "Beo" attended the East Ward School at the Tannery location and walked to Munising for seventh grade through high school.  She graduated in 1922 on the Delft Theater stage because the high school had burned down in December of 1921.  "Beo" studied Library Science at Northern Michigan Normal College and became the Munising librarian until early 1942.  On September 1, 1941, "Beo" married Edmond J. Mitchell.  On June 30, 1942, their only child, Beverly Eleanor was born.  Edmond preceded her in death in 1991.  "Beo" was a charter member of the Alger County Historical Society and was able to assist them with her remarkable memory of people, places, and happenings in Alger County.   She had been active in the community over the years with Brownie Girl Scouts, Hospital Auxiliary, Christian Endeavor, Campfire Girls, and a member of the MSU Extention.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.  "Beo" served as an original deacon and was involved in the Sunday school, choir, women's association, and Bible study.  She was a faithful woman who had a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit.   "Beo" was humble woman and did not like to be told that she was an inspiration to people... ..but she was.  On Friday evening, she was lifted into the loving arms of our Savior, a tired soul who served, loved, and was blessed by Him.  "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."  - Psalm116:15 She was the last surviving child born to Signe and Albert Oas:  Frithjof and Wanda (Pangborn) Oas, Hildur and Harry Olson, Edmund and Elila (Wilson) Oas, Harold and Mary (Harvey) Oas, and Arnold Oas all preceded her in death as well as her dear "son"-in-law, Joseph Micallef and grandson Angelo Nicholas.  Survivors include her daughter, Beverly Micallef, friend Ron Latvala, and grandsons and wives, Shawn and Jennifer and Mark and Nancy.  "Beo" leaves many beloved nieces and nephews and their many offspring, remembering each of their names.  And, very special #2 daughter, Anna Watson Madison.  A celebration of her life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Munising on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Jim Ramelis officiating.  Visiting time with family and friends will take place following the service in the church's fellowship hall.   "Beo" loved the coffee hour that followed church and a luncheon will be served following her service.             In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund or the Alger County Historical Society.