John Mitchell “Mitch” Lynd, age 83, of Johnstown, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center (operated by Hospice of Central Ohio).

Mitch was born December 4, 1942 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Arnold Lynd and the late Helen Dorothea (Reelhorn) Lynd.

Having graduated from Alexandria High School, Mitch earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from The Ohio State University. Upon graduation, he worked as an assistant store manager for the Kroger Company and later worked at the Ohio Container Company before returning to his family farm, Lynd Fruit Farm. As a fruit grower he was recognized as an innovative thinker and clear communicator and served the apple industry in many different capacities at both the state and national levels. He was awarded the Apple Grower of the Year award in 1995 by American Fruit Grower magazine and was inducted into the Licking County Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2016. His most notable contribution to the industry was his co-founding of what became the Midwest Apple Improvement Association, from which came the apple Evercrisp now planted world-wide. His leadership led to the U-pick apple experience at Lynd Fruit Farm enjoyed by generations of families for over fifty years.

As significant as his contributions were to the apple industry, his legacy of loving his family was even greater. He was fully dedicated to his grandchildren’s passions ranging from music to nature to sports.

Mitch is survived by his cherished wife, Penny (Thompson) of 64 years; children, Debbie (Jeff) Patton and Andy (Debbie) Lynd; along with grandchildren, Isaac (Grace) Lynd, Alex (Grace) Patton, Angie (Cody) Wilcox, Caleb (Emily) Patton, Noah (Erika) Lynd, Cassie (Ethan) Bosley, Aaron Lynd, Cara Lynd, Sadie Lynd & Molly Lynd; great-grandchildren, Silas, Judah, Jack, Aisla, Augie, Penny, Alden and two on the way. Also survived by siblings, David (Debbie) Lynd and Brenda Schostag; sister-in-law Marcia Lynd; many nieces, nephews & cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother, Lester Lynd, and brother-in-law, Fred Schostag.

Friends may visit with the family from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, in the orchard located at 9199 Morse Rd. SW, Pataskala. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alexandria Baptist Church, where Mitch was a lifelong member (P.O. Box 8, Alexandria, OH 43001).

Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service in Kirkersville is honored to care for Mitch and his family.