Theodore “Ted” Ralph Mitka, 31, died October 5, 2022 after a lengthy hospitalization for multiple infections. Born on June 28, 1991 to Michael and Gloria (Christopherson) Mitka in Chicago, Ted grew up in Oak Park and River Forest. He attended Oak Park and River Forest High School, where he participated in volleyball and soccer, and graduated from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn. with a degree in psychology.
After college, Ted worked as a project assistant for a Chicago law firm. More recently, he was working to become a software developer. Outside of school and work, Ted was an avid videogame player and enjoyed few things more than playing games with friends.
Ted received kidney transplants twice over the years, from both parents. He was an active participant in 3 Transplant Games of America where he competed on the Team Illinois volleyball and basketball teams.
Ted’s health challenges didn’t sidetrack him from meeting life head on, with grace and courage. He remained an optimist who cherished life, his family and friends. As one friend said, “He was an amazing guy, funny, kind, adventurous in spite of his obstacles and loyal as all get out. He will be sadly, sadly missed.”
Those who mourn his passing include his parents, a brother, Nathan, a grandmother, Dolores Arnett, many aunts, uncles and cousins, and a host of friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Transplant Olympics’ Team Illinois, c/o Leah Howell, Treasurer, 1307 S. Wabash Ave., #605, Chicago, IL 60605, or on its website at Make a Donation | go-team-illinois (goteamillinois.org).(the Team has asked that donations be noted in memory of Ted).