"Skinny" Johnny Mitchell

In Loving Memory of “Skinny” Johnny Mitchell (November 12, 1942 – January 1, 2025)

The world lost a true original with the passing of “Skinny” Johnny Mitchell on January 1, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on November 12, 1942, in Spokane, Washington, Skinny became a legend in radio, a meticulous music collector, and a thrill-seeker with a penchant for fast cars, cool motorcycles, beautiful women, and extraordinary feats.

Skinny’s brief service in the United States Air Force was cut short due to medical reasons, but it led him to pursue his true passion—music. As a radio personality in Salt Lake City, he made his mark at KCPX Radio, where his engaging shows and unique personality captured the hearts of listeners. Known for his signature sign-off, “Do what you think is correct and always remember, "Skinny" loves your neck. Goodnight, Babe," he turned music into a shared community experience.

Beyond the radio booth, Skinny was a music historian and perfectionist, spending countless hours restoring rare songs to their original production quality. His legendary collection included every Top 100 pop hit from 1955 to the mid-2010s, as well as extensive collections of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Marty Robbins, and The Beach Boys.

Skinny wasn’t just about music—he loved fast cars, cool motorcycles, and living life to the fullest. He even made history by setting the world record for the longest time spent riding a Ferris wheel. In a feat that captivated his community, Skinny spent nine days and completed 57,339 revolutions on the old Ferris wheel at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City.

Skinny is survived by two daughters and two sons, along with five grandchildren who are sure to carry on his adventurous spirit.

Skinny’s legacy will be remembered for his contributions to radio, his meticulous preservation of music history, and his zest for life’s wildest rides. His story will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him and in every note of the songs he loved so dearly. He truly was a friend to his fans and deeply impacted many of them throughout their teen years as they listened to him in their bedrooms or while dragging State Street. Many of his fans were also greatly impacted by being able to see and meet him during his many live appearances at events throughout the Wasatch Front.

Rest easy, Skinny. The world was better with you in it, and your voice and music will keep playing on in many people's minds and hearts.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Aaron’s Mortuary, 1050 S. State Street, Clearfield, UT 84015 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. A Graveside Service will follow at 11 AM at Clearfield City Cemetery, 1050 S. State Street, Clearfield, UT 84015.

Arrangements under the direction of Star Mortuary, Mesquite, NV. Family and friends can sign the online guestbook and leave condolences for the family at www.starmortuary.com.