Mitchell Adkin Hanson

Mitchell Adkin Hanson, of Apopka, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, at the age of 64. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn, and their children, Hope and Harley, along with his cherished grandson, Scout. He also leaves behind his son-in-law, Josh; his brothers, Michael, Marty, and Matthew; his sister, Melodi; and a large extended family who loved and admired him deeply.

Born in 1961 in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, to Nina Gay and George Hanson, Mitchell moved with his family to Jacksonville and later Dallas before settling in Orlando in 1966. He attended Lake Weston Elementary, Milwee Junior High, and graduated from Lyman High School in 1979. A gifted athlete, Mitchell earned a basketball scholarship to LaGrange College, a small liberal arts school near Columbus, Georgia, where he graduated in 1983 with a degree in English.

Later that year, he enrolled at the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, graduating in May of 1986. Following graduation, Mitchell clerked for one year in Miami for the Honorable Peter Fay of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. He then joined the Tampa-based law firm of Stagg, Hardy & Yerrid, where he practiced from 1987 to 1992, specializing in maritime law.

It was during this time that he met Dawn. The two dated for five years before marrying in 1996, beginning 29 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Mitchell often described Dawn as his best friend—his greatest source of joy and strength throughout his life.

In 1992, Mitchell returned to Orlando and co-founded the personal injury law firm Hanson and Hanson with his brother Michael. Together, they proudly served clients for more than 30 years. Mitchell finished his legal career at the law firm of Brett Bressler, P.A., where he continued to support clients with compassion, diligence, and integrity.

Mitchell had a lifelong love of sports—especially basketball, football, and golf—and was always up for a game, whether watching or playing. He loved being on the water, often taking his boat out to fish or explore, and also found peace kayaking through Florida’s rivers and springs.

Mitchell was deeply shaped by the wisdom and guidance of several mentors throughout his life. He often spoke with gratitude and reverence for the judges he clerked for, including Judge Peter Fay, and for the university professors who challenged and inspired him. He was also profoundly influenced by his mother, Nina Gay, who selflessly raised five children and quietly, faithfully planted the seeds of his faith. Her love, strength, and spiritual foundation remained a guiding force throughout his life, and he was forever grateful for her example.

A true lover of the natural world, Mitchell found beauty and wonder in the diversity of plants and animals. He enjoyed quiet mornings in his yard caring for his plants, sipping coffee, playing his guitar, and gently swinging from a wooden swing in his backyard, hanging beneath the large live oak trees. It was in these simple, soulful moments that he felt most at home.

Mitchell was also a gifted artist, able to draw and paint with great sensitivity and detail. He was a poet and creative writer whose words carried warmth, humor, and insight. Over the years, he wrote several beautiful letters—each one filled with heartfelt reflection. His writing often explored his thoughts on faith and family, and he reflected deeply on life, the lessons he had learned, and the unique perspective he hoped to share with others.

A master storyteller, Mitchell lit up every room he entered with tales that captivated and connected. He truly cherished his friendships—many of which began decades ago and endured across the seasons of his life. Several dated back to middle school and high school, while others formed during his college years, on the sports teams he played for, and throughout his legal career. Whether they were teammates, work peers, or professional colleagues, Mitchell stayed connected to those who mattered to him. He deeply valued these relationships and the joy, support, and laughter they brought.

Above all else, the most important part of Mitchell’s life was his deep and profound faith. He began each day reading and studying the Bible, finding wisdom, strength, and comfort in God’s Word. He always carried his Bible with him—a constant companion and reminder of the hope and peace that guided his every step.

Despite his many talents and accomplishments, Mitchell was one of the most humble people you could ever meet—never seeking recognition or praise, even when it was richly deserved.

More than anything, Mitchell found his greatest joy in time spent with family. He was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loving brother and son. He truly honored and cherished not only his immediate family, but his greater family, those connected by love, history, and shared life. He was a man firmly rooted in grace, kindness, and unwavering belief.

A Celebration of Life honoring Mitchell will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 11:00 A.M. at Renewal Church, located at 2335 Appy Lane, Apopka, FL 32712.

Following the service, all are invited to a Celebration of Life reception with refreshments.

To help the family plan for seating and hospitality, guests are kindly asked to RSVP using the following link: https://forms.gle/vR7Y4y8Uo7L2bL4VA

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests potted plants to honor Mitchell’s love of nature. These living tributes may be taken home, planted in his memory, or left to help create a lasting garden of remembrance.