Victor E. Mikkelson, 89, a resident of the Morrow Memorial Home in Sparta, went to Heaven on Sunday, June 29, 2008. He was born on February 6, 1919 in the Town of Christiana in Vernon County to Edna (Larson) and Mikkel Mikkelson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. On November 27, 1937, Victor married Ruby Cambell, and five children were born to this union.

     Victor was a caring, highly-respected man who was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He brought a strong work ethic to all that he did. He enjoyed many years of farming and working as a census taker. He later worked as a butter maker before becoming Village Marshall in Cashton. His experience as Village Marshall led him to pursue employment as a deputy for the Monroe Traffic Patrol, a position which he held for just over seven years. He enjoyed the Red Cross training he utilized in conjunction with that Traffic Patrol position. After moving to the Menomenee Falls area in the 1960’s, he was employed as a metalworker in that area for a number of years. Even after “retirement” and moving back to Sparta, he continued to be active and worked at the Sparta Hardees until the restaurant closed.

     Victor’s family and loved ones will always treasure the unique and special gifts he created using his carpentry and metalwork skills. This craftsmanship and pride in his work were evident in the two cabins he built. He had a love of history and geography, and as an avid reader, eagerly shared this knowledge with friends and family, young and old. Victor took pleasure in writing poetry and stories about his life experiences and family. His writing talent was surpassed perhaps only by his gift for painting and artwork which reflect his love of nature. Victor, a great story teller, loved a good comedy television show or video. He enjoyed music, played the harmonica, and many of the grandchildren and great grandchildren have memories of dancing the schottische with him. He was an active member of the Wesleyan Church, and his generous spirit led him to volunteer in many areas of the church community.

     Victor was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of nearly 25 years, Marie; a brother, Harvey; and a sister-in-law, Phronie. Also preceding him in death was his wife, Alycmarie. Little Devon, with her beautiful eyes, has been watching from Heaven and waiting for her very special great grandfather to arrive.

     He is survived by his children, Margaret (Alfred) Namejunas of Altoona, WI; Myrna (Dr. Ken) White of Lake Park, FL; Karen Geier of La Crosse, WI; Edith (Wally) Habhegger of Sparta, WI; and Daniel Mikkelson of Mauston, WI. Survived also be his stepchildren, Clarence Zimmerman of Markesan, WI; Jerry (Barb) Zimmerman of Sparta; Dianna (Don) Ekern of Onalaska, WI; Verna Schmidt of East Troy, WI; James (Pam) Brown of Edwardsburg, MI; David Brown of Sparta; Robert (Diane) Brown of Sparta; Bonnie Kay (Roger) Herold, Clitherall, MN; and Betty Symicek of Black River Falls, WI. Further survived by grandchildren, Brad Benedict of Appleton, WI; Dawn (Daren) Jenson of Rogers, MN; Steven (Jennifer) Woods of St. Augustine, FL; Sherri (Robert) Rollins of Bainbridge, GA; Douglas (Gary) Geier of San Francisco, CA; Dean (Kristi) Geier of Milwaukee, WI; Daniel (Julie) Geier of Grand Meadow, MN; Darrin (Ali) Geier of Vadnais Heights, MN; and Tammy (Kimikia) Holmes of Yantis, TX; great grandchildren, Drew and Joshua Jenson; Charles and Angelia Rollins; Ella Woods; and Mason, Megan, Erik, and Rebekah Geier. Also survived by step grandchildren and great grandchildren and countless friends.

     Funeral services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta, with Reverend Dr. Ken White officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Sparta.

     Family and friends are invited to call at Lanham-Miller Funeral Home on Wednesday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Thursday at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until time of services. Memorial may be given to the Morrow Memorial Home, Sparta.

     The Lanham-Miller Funeral Home, Sparta, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.