Michael Jon Mikesell

In Loving Memory of Michael Jon Mikesell
December 22, 1961 – Forever Cheering from the Best Seat in the House.

Michael Jon Mikesell, born December 22, 1961, in Seattle, Washington, has clocked out of life’s final inning and headed off to a place where the Yankees never lose, the Dolphins always win, and Mark Martin is forever taking the checkered flag.

Michael unexpectedly passed away on June 4th, 2026, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Michael was a man of simple pleasures and unwavering loyalties. If there was a baseball game on, he was watching it. If there wasn’t a baseball game on, he was probably watching NASCAR. And if neither was available, you could find him enjoying a Western, reliving adventures with John Wayne (“The Duke”), or laughing along with The Three Stooges for what may have been the hundredth time.

His devotion to the New York Yankees and Miami Dolphins was rivaled only by his devotion to his family. Michael’s heart was one of his most memorable traits—sometimes a little too big, sometimes worn right on his sleeve, but always genuine. He loved deeply, cared fiercely, and never missed an opportunity to spend time with the people who mattered the most.

Those left behind can take comfort knowing Michael is probably somewhere beyond the pearly gates, remote control in hand, Western marathon on one screen, Yankees game on another, and a NASCAR race playing in the background—living his version of perfection.

Michael leaves behind a family who will miss his humor, his stubborn team loyalties, and the love he gave so freely. He is survived by his parents, Edie and Jim Mikesell; his siblings, Roy (Darla) Mikesell, Tacey (Donnie) Laurie, and Tracey (Shawna) Mikesell; his children, Kari (Tim) Forkner, Casey Mikesell, Stephanie Pryor, Linda (Steven) Carter, Patrick (Misty) Carter, and Jeff (Destiny) Mikesell; and his beloved grandchildren, Jameson, Blake, Jaylen, Kylie, Jayden, Adam, Mikey, Nadia, Clayton, Abriana, Jordyn, and Kayden.

Michael is also survived by his former wife and lifelong friend, Kimberly Mikesell, with whom he shared many cherished memories.

He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends who will forever remember his laughter, his stories, and his unmistakable passion for the things he loved.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved son, Cody Joe Mikesell, whom he carried in his heart every day.

While his family mourns his passing, they find comfort knowing that somewhere beyond the clouds, Michael is settled into the best recliner imaginable, remote in hand, watching a Yankees game, a NASCAR race, and a John Wayne marathon all at the same time.

Rest easy, Michael. The game may be over, but your legacy will keep playing on in the hearts of all who loved you.

In lieu of flowers, Michael would likely suggest turning on a ballgame, watching a good Western, spending time with family, and rooting for the Yankees—even if they break your heart.

Michael has officially traded his season tickets for the best seat in the house. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends can gather to tell stories, cheer for the memories, and celebrate a life that was full of heart, humor, and plenty of home runs. Details will be announced soon.

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