SPRINGFIELD – Mitchell "Mitch" Cronister, 57, passed away Thursday, March 2, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born September 16, 1965 to Gerald L. and Pauline (Hocking) Cronister. He married Anne Young in Las Vegas on September 2, 2002, after being together for ten years. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald; brother, Jerry; and sister, Cheryl.

Mitch was formerly employed by Jewel-Osco and later owned Mr. J's from 1998 until 2004. He enjoyed playing darts and poker and was a member of WSOP poker league. Mitch was an active member of the YMCA.

He is survived by his wife, Anne; and son, Travis Young. He also helped raise Brian Steller, Jeremy Fawns, Donald Hyde, Jr. and was a father figure to many others. He is also survived by his mother, Pauline Cronister; brothers, Mark (Michelle) Cronister, John Cronister and Rich (Betty) Brockschmidt; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial gathering will be held from 4 p.m. until the time of a memorial service at 5:30 p.m. Monday, March 6, 2023, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home with Pastor Hans Poetschner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses