Mitchell Thomas Simonson, age 17, of Cashton, WI passed away at home, with his dad by his side, on March 3, 2026. Mitchell suffered a rare, unforeseen, and sudden medical complication, taking him from us far too soon.
Born on July 8, 2008, Mitchell was a young man whose maturity and kindness exceeded his years. Though his time with us was too short, he lived a life defined by purpose, adventure, and an unwavering positive attitude.
Mitchell was known by everyone for his thoughtful nature, sense of humor, kind heart, and his innate desire to be helpful. Whether it was a friend, a family member, or a stranger in need, he saw it as an opportunity to be gracious. Mitchell met every situation he encountered with a sincere smile, a can-do attitude, and empathy in his heart. Mitchell had a rare ability to lift the spirits of those around him, leaving every room a little brighter than he found it.
Mitchell embraced life with curiosity and courage. He had a thirst for knowledge and would tirelessly research topics that interested him. He was reluctant to play sports at first, but after much encouragement from his friends, Mitchell joined the Cashton football team in 7th grade. Playing football and being part of a team, a team that became a second family, was one of his greatest joys these past six years. He treasured his friendships and the memories they created, especially post-game fast-food shenanigans and game-day dress-up themes. He loved spending summers on the lake, with his friends and their families, boating, tubing, and jet skiing. Mitchell also enjoyed skiing and working at Mt. La Crosse, attending outdoor concerts, and lifting weights. One of his favorite pastimes was listening to a wide variety of music, especially while driving his beloved car.
Mitchell recently found his calling in life. He was studying to become an EMT and was on track to finish this college level course in April. After high school, Mitchell planned to continue working as an EMT and eventually attend WTC for his paramedic education. He completed his first clinical shift on February 27th and came home very excited about his future career. Mitchell enjoyed talking with his Mom and sister about the things he was learning and the various medical topics he wanted to better understand.
Mitchell loved his friends and family dearly. His short life was immensely rich because of all the people in it. Mitchell was a role model for his younger cousins and friends. He took great pride in this job, showing them how to meet all of life’s challenges with bravery, grace, and determination. Anything Mitchell set his mind to, he did it, and did it well, with integrity, grit, enthusiasm, and certain success. Mitchell will be so immensely missed.
Mitchell is survived by his parents Joey & Katie Mashak, his sister, Madaline, and her fiancé Ty Costello; Grandparents, Tom & Geri Simonson, and Bill & Gini Mashak; aunts and uncles, Becky Muellenberg, Rachel Schroeder, Diane Simonson, Amy & Bill Flottmeyer, and Ben & Tracy Mashak; cousins Jaxon & Evelyn Muellenberg, Dominick Schroeder, Preston & Carter McNulty, Levi Bauer, and Dominic & Naomi Mashak; and countless, cherished friends.
Mitchell is preceded in death by his uncle Jeff Muellenberg. His resilience, strength, and dependability throughout Jeff’s battle with brain cancer was remarkable.
A celebration of Mitchell’s life is planned for Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 2:00pm-7:00pm, at the Cashton Community Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ‘Cashton Schools Scholarship’ in Mitchell’s honor.
Let the memory of Mitchell be a reminder that the world is vast, meant to be explored, and every obstacle is simply a new trail waiting to be blazed. While Mitchell’s life was far too short, the depth of the life he lived far outweighed its length. Mitchell didn’t just move through the world; he left it better, brighter, and more alive for all of us. We carry forward Mitchell’s spirit of adventure, his sense of purpose, and tireless optimism to turn even the darkest day into an opportunity for light.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Cashton, WI is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
