On January 10, 2026, Bear Creek Village held a heartfelt ceremony to honor Walter S. Mitchell Jr., the borough’s founding and only mayor, who has dedicated over three decades of service to the community. The event took place at the Bear Creek Club House, where friends, family, local officials, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate Mitchell’s impactful tenure.
The afternoon was filled with speeches, storytelling, and musical tributes, reflecting the deep affection residents have for their mayor. Mitchell was aware of an event in his honor but was surprised by its grand scale. “To say I am overwhelmed would be an understatement,” he remarked during the festivities.
A diverse lineup of speakers praised Mitchell’s contributions to the borough that was established in 1992 after separating from Bear Creek Township. Elected as the first mayor in 1993, Mitchell served until November 2025, when he decided not to seek reelection. Tony Brooks, a member of the Wilkes-Barre City Council and a longtime friend of Mitchell, served as the master of ceremonies.
Former borough council member Jim Maxwell opened the event with an invocation, while Mitchell’s brother, Coray, shared anecdotes from their childhood. “Everyone who has lived in Bear Creek knows and appreciates how unique life in the village is,” noted Don Sanderson, a former borough council member. He emphasized the significant role Mitchell has played in shaping that uniqueness.
Mitchell’s legacy is intricately tied to the borough’s history. During his time as mayor, he spearheaded various initiatives, including the successful nomination of the Bear Creek Village Historic District to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. He also led efforts to conserve 139 acres of land into a conservation trust in 2007 and 2012 and coordinated community efforts to recover from a devastating flood in 2002.
Current Mayor Michael Harostock, who was elected in November, praised Mitchell’s dedication and vision. “Mayor Mitchell’s legacy is not only one of governance – it’s of community,” he stated, declaring January 10 a borough holiday in Mitchell’s honor.
Beyond politics, Mitchell’s diverse background includes serving in the Army, where he taught broadcasting, and later working as a director at a radio station. His passion for the arts found expression in community theater, where he performed in notable productions such as “Fiddler on the Roof” and “1776.”
The celebration also received recognition from state and federal officials. Michael Carroll, the Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation, and state Senator Dave Argall offered words of praise, while U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan recognized Mitchell on the House floor just a day prior to the ceremony.
Among the highlights of the event was a musical tribute led by Mitchell’s son, Dave, showcasing the familial bonds that underpin the community spirit. Attendees shared personal anecdotes of Mitchell’s kindness, recalling his willingness to help others, whether it was assisting someone with a flat tire or delivering homemade pecan pies to new residents.
Sanderson expressed confidence that Mitchell would continue to be a guiding force in the community despite stepping down from office. “You will be missed, dear friend,” he said, acknowledging the enduring impact Mitchell has had on Bear Creek Village.
In his closing remarks, Mitchell expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “It really does take a village.” Reflecting on his time in office, he said, “I loved every moment. It’s been an honor and a privilege.”
