Mitchell Bradley Blackledge

February 14, 1963 - March 21, 2022

Mitchell Blackledge passed away March 21, 2022 at his home in Twisp, WA. He was born in Seattle, WA and attended Queen Anne High School. Mitchell was an especially gifted mechanic and was able to open his own automotive business in the Seattle area. After several years, he moved to Twisp, WA to be closer to his parents, James and Jeri Blackledge and his brothers, Matthew and Michael. He enjoyed the small town life and welcomed the change of pace. An added bonus, he met his wife-to-be in Twisp--Joanne Smith and they were married there June 24, 2000. Mitch opened another auto business there in 2005. His talent and integrity with his customers made the business a success. He had a genuine curiosity about solving auto problems that made his work interesting and provided self-satisfaction as well. Mitch and Joanne happily completed their family with the birth of their son, Kaiden James, on September 22, 2010. A blessing they'd been waiting for indeed! As a very young boy Kaiden loved spending time at his Dad's shop, learning the trade as he "helped" his Dad and even shared tips with their customers! Friends noted that father and son became a kind of fixture in Twisp, seeing them so often together biking, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling. Kaiden was so fortunate to have a Dad who spent time with him, who truly enjoyed his company while teaching him fishing, skiing and mechanical skills. Kaiden's mom, Joanne, was the true outdoor mom - the organizer, chief cook and bottlewasher - who made their camping and fishing trips special and fun for everybody. Joanne, also an exceptional artist and creative crafter shared these talents and other faith and life skills with Kaiden too. Life was good for them until recent years brought Mitch some tough and unexpected medical problems. Hard years, yes, but family love and support enabled them to keep moving forward and they did with amazing faith and determination. Sadly tho, time was not on our side. Mitch was a good guy, humorous, very verbal and willing to share his life, views and money too (!) without constraint! He will be missed much and by many. Mitch was simply a wonderful and loving son, a generous and protective brother always to Matt and Mike, a faithful and loving husband and father who we miss beyond words and will love and keep forever in our hearts. Memorial service for friends and family will be held Saturday, April 16th at 3:00 PM at the Cascade Bible Church in Twisp, WA.