Mitch Meil’s Life and Legacy

Mitch Meil was a prominent member of Grand Junction’s skateboarding community, who passed away on January 24th, 2024, at Saint Mary’s Hospital. He was 28 years old. He was a loving husband, caring father, and a talented skateboarder who inspired many people with his passion and kindness.

Meil was born in Grand Junction, Colorado, on June 15th, 1995. He grew up skateboarding with his friends and family, and developed a love for the sport and the culture. He competed in several local and regional events, and won many awards and recognition for his skills and style. He also traveled to different places to skate and explore new spots.

Meil married his high school sweetheart, Jessica, in 2017, and they had a son, Mason, in 2019. He worked as a mechanic at a local car shop, and enjoyed spending time with his wife and son. He was also a devoted Christian, and attended the First Baptist Church of Grand Junction.

Skateboarding Community Mourns His Loss

Meil’s death was a shock and a tragedy for the skateboarding community in Grand Junction and beyond. He was riding his skateboard on Orchard Avenue, near 28 1/2 Road, when he was hit by a car. The driver of the car, a 19-year-old woman, was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide, DUI, and reckless driving.

Many of Meil’s friends, family, and fellow skateboarders gathered at the skatepark on Hawthorne Avenue, where he used to skate, to pay tribute to him. They held a candlelight vigil, shared stories and memories, and skated in his honor. They also raised money for his funeral expenses and his family’s needs.

“He was such a good person, always smiling, always positive, always helpful. He was like a brother to me,” said Tyler Smith, one of Meil’s best friends and skateboarding partners. “He taught me so much about skateboarding and life. He was always there for me, no matter what. I miss him so much.”

“He was an amazing skateboarder, and an even more amazing human being,” said Ryan Jones, another friend and skateboarder. “He had a passion for skateboarding that was contagious. He always pushed himself and others to try new things and have fun. He was also very kind and generous. He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He was a role model for everyone.”

A Legacy of Love and Skateboarding

Meil’s family and friends said that they want to remember him for his love and skateboarding, and to keep his spirit alive. They said that he would want them to be happy, and to continue skateboarding and enjoying life.

“He was the best husband and father I could ever ask for,” said Jessica Meil, his wife. “He loved me and Mason more than anything. He was always supportive, caring, and attentive. He made me laugh every day. He was my soulmate.”

“He was the best dad ever,” said Mason Meil, his son. “He taught me how to skate and play games. He always hugged me and kissed me. He told me he loved me every day. He was my hero.”

Meil’s family and friends said that they plan to organize a memorial skate event in his honor, and to create a scholarship fund for young skateboarders in his name. They also hope that his story will raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving, and the need for more safety measures for skateboarders on the road.

“He was a legend, and he will never be forgotten,” said Smith. “He left a mark on this world, and on our hearts. We love you, Mitch. Rest in peace, brother.”