It is with heavy hearts and beautiful memories that we announce the passing of April Mitchell Padgen. April passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

April was born in Valparaiso, Indiana, on April 1, 1966, to Ken Mitchell and Jo Sanders. She graduated from LaPorte High School and continued on to receive an Associate Degree from Michiana College of Commerce.

Those who knew April will remember her for her kindness, her caring heart, and the love she showed to those around her. She had a special way of making people feel valued, and her presence brought comfort and joy to family and friends alike.

April was married to Rich Padgen on April 3, 1993, and together they shared 28 years of marriage.

Above all, April cherished her family, offering love and encouragement which shaped the lives of those closest to her. Her legacy will live on through the memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she so freely gave.

April is survived by her three children, Jocie (Nathan) Clemente, Mikaela (Jason) Walburg, Drew (Ava) Padgen, and her mother Jo Sanders Walker, along with other family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

The Celebration of Life service will be held at Mile City Church in Plymouth, Michigan on July 11, 2026. Visitation will be held at 3:00 p.m., and the service will begin at 4:00 p.m.

Memorial donations in memory of April may be made to Henry Ford Health Game On Cancer.

Donations may be made securely online at

https://secure3.convio.net/hfordh/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app30015b?df_id=3861&mfc_pref=T&3861.donation=form1&NONCE_TOKEN=5D6FCC087932911B7D78612C8919E3AF

Donations can also be made by check, made payable to Henry Ford Health Game On Cancer, and mailed to: Henry Ford Health, Development Office, 1 Ford Place #5A, Detroit, MI 48202-3450.