LAWRENCE — Joseph Frances Mithen Sr., 85, a lifelong Lawrence resident, passed away peacefully at Merrimack Valley Hospice House, Friday, July 2, 2010. He was the loving husband of 60 years of Mrs. Irene P. (Rouff) Mithen of Reservoir Terrace, Lawrence. They were married Saturday, Oct. 29, 1949 in St. Patrick Church, South Lawrence.
A native of this city, he was born on Dec. 26, 1924, to the late Michael J. Mithen and Lena (Kirwis) Mithen. He was raised and educated in Lawrence; attended St. Patrick Parochial School and Lawrence High School.
Prior to retirement in 1990, Mr. Mithen was employed by Converse Rubber Co., in Andover for 35 years. Later, he served as a custodian at the University in Lowell for eight years.
Those who knew him will remember him as a true gentleman; his conduct proceeded from good will and an acute sense of propriety. He offered his sincere friendship to all whom he met, and was well liked by his many friends and neighbors. He was an avid Redsox fan, accomplished bowler and softball coach.
In addition to his devoted wife, family members include two sons, Joseph Mithen Jr., of Lawrence, Steven Mithen and his wife Donna of Hudson, N.H.; one daughter, Patricia Mithen of Lawrence; one sister, Marilyn Brennan of North Andover; son-in-law, Ben Thibault of Andover; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and his loyal dog and constant companion, Molly. He was predeceased by one daughter, Cynthia Thibault and two brothers, William Mithen, George Mithen.
ARRANGEMENTS: Funeral from the Diaz Healy Funeral Home, Inc., 107 South Broadway, Opposite St. Patrick Church, South Lawrence. Visiting hours, Tuesday, July 6, 2010 from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will take place Wednesday, July 7, 2010 in St. Patrick Church, 118 South Broadway, South Lawrence at 11 a.m. Interment to follow will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Currant Hill Road, Lawrence. Courtesy local transportation to the services is available upon request by calling Manolito Diaz at Tel 978 685-5732. A gift to honor his memory may be made to Cor Unum Meal Center, 118 South Broadway, Lawrence, MA 01843. Condolences may be registered at www.diazhealy.com.




