Richard A. "Mike" Mickelson

Richard A. “Mike” Mickelson, 87 of Onalaska, passed away at his home surrounded by family on Monday, November 1, 2021. He was born July 21, 1934, in La Crosse to Arthur and Florence (Franson) Mickelson and graduated from Central High School.

Mike served his country in the United States Army from 1954 until 1956. He proudly participated in the 2015 Freedom Honor Flight with his brother, Bob. Mike began his working career as a Borden’s milkman and held a number of sales and delivery positions over the years, working into his 80’s.

On August 3, 1974, he married Sandra “Sandy” Hess in Waukon, IA. Mike was an avid athlete all of his life. He enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for Handy Builders in the Classic League. He also liked playing basketball, bowling, and golf. Mike especially enjoyed getting together with the golfing guys on Fridays and planning the annual golf party.

Mike was an avid Packers, Brewers and Badgers fan; his motto being, “I yell because I care.” He often talked about driving to the Rose Bowl as a young man in his convertible with his friend Jerry. He also enjoyed taking his dog, Skippy, to the dog park.

Mike and Sandy hosted many road trips for friends and family in their motor home. Camping was a favorite pastime for many years. Mike always made sure that others had a good time; whether it be planning get togethers with friends or securing a spot at the annual Oktoberfest Parade. Mike and Sandy enjoyed trips to Wisconsin Dells to celebrate their anniversaries.

In addition to his wife Sandy of 47 years, he is survived by his children; Cathy (Kurt) Johnson of Fitchburg, WI, Tom (Doreen) Mickelson of La Crosse and Angela (Ronnie) DeForrest of Athens, TN; stepdaughters, Deb (Mark) Mosey of Colfax, WI and Shelley (Jeff) Sheehan of Caledonia, MN; a brother, Robert (Marian) Mickelson of La Crosse; grandchildren, Lindsey Johnson, Krissy Mickelson, Lorali (Jon) Sallander, Rachel Mosey, Ben Mosey and Safiyyah (Derek) Cummings; great-grandchildren, Krystal Olson, Salem Sallander, Owen Cummings, and Lilian Cummings; a niece and nephew, Steve (Carol) Mickelson and Joy Kauke; along with his beloved dog, Skippy. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, Alex Mickelson and granddaughters, Meghan Johnson and Katrina Abdul-Alim.