James F. "Jim" Mikkelson

James F. “Jim” Mikkelson, 91, of West Bend, passed away on August 31, 2025, at Rocky Knoll in Plymouth.

James “Jim” Mikkelson entered the world on April 4, 1934, in the quiet town of Antigo, born to Arnold and Mary (née Behm) Mikkelson. A man of unwavering values, Jim answered the call of duty, serving proudly in the U.S. Navy from January 1955 to December 1958. His service earned him several honors, including the Good Conduct Medal, the European Occupation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

After his honorable discharge, Jim planted roots in West Bend, where he would begin the next great chapter of his life—family. On January 21, 1958, he married the love of his life after only knowing her for 3 days, Elizabeth Duke. Together, they shared nearly six decades of love, laughter, and partnership before Elizabeth’s passing on October 1, 2017. Jim never stopped loving her; she was, and always would be, the center of his heart.

Jim was known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor. He was the kind of man who could light up a room with a joke and leave everyone smiling. He was also deeply principled—stubborn in the best ways, guided by strong morals, and a fierce protector of those he loved. His family meant everything to him. He was a proud grandfather who delighted especially in the youngest of his grandchildren, cherishing every moment with the little ones.

An outdoorsman at heart, Jim found joy in deer hunting, fishing, and gathering around the card table. He had a soft spot for classic cars—particularly Buicks and GMCs—and could often be found admiring their timeless beauty.

A true inspiration, Jim embodied strength, resilience, and above all, love. His legacy is not only in the medals he earned or the stories he told but in the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

Those Jim leaves behind to cherish his memory include five children; James (Mary) Mikkelson Jr., Sherrie (Terry) Van Akkeren, Marc (Sherry) Mikkelson, Michael Mikkelson (Izzy), and Jeannette (Brian) Troedel; 20 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; his siblings, Lois (Willard) Rowe, Dick (Shirley) Mikkelson, Ellen Schielke, and Ronald Mikkelson; other relatives and friends.

In addition to his wife and parents, Jim was preceded in death by eight children in infancy; his siblings, Delores (LaMoine) Hauser and Jeanette (Ted) Steinke; a brother-in-law, Walter “Butch” Schielke.

VISITATION: Jim’s family will greet relatives and friends at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service, 1315 W. Washington Street, in West Bend, on Monday, September 15, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 1:50 p.m.

SERVICE: A memorial service for Jim will be held at 1:50 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Inurnment of the cremains will follow at Washington County Memorial Park in West Bend with military honors rites.

Jim’s family is grateful for the loving care provided by the staff of Sharon S Richardson Community Hospice and Rocky Knoll Health Care Center

The Myrhum – Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Jim’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.