August 14, 1949 ~ February 8, 2020
Born in: Ashtabula, Ohio
Resided in: Mills River, North Carolina
Mills River – Gary Lee Mikkonen, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2020 surrounded by the people and animals he loved.
Gary was born on August 14, 1949 in Ashtabula Ohio. He was the son of the late William E. Mikkonen Sr, and Ruth G. Talcott. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William E. Mikkonen, Jr.
He is survived by two daughters, Mandie Sifers (Cody) of Mills River NC, and Miranda Mikkonen of Asheville NC; one granddaughter, Kyndall Sifers; Gary’s partner, Debbie Kivela; his two cats Cricket & Angie as well as numerous cousins.
Gary was a U.S. Navy Veteran who served three campaigns in the Vietnam War. He worked for Rockwell International/Meritor Automotive where he retired after 35 years. In his spare time he enjoyed playing golf, and socializing with friends.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, February 13, 2020 in the Chapel of Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian in Arden. The family will receive friends after the service concludes.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice that supports our veterans or to the American Cancer Society.
Services
Celebration of Life: February 13, 2020 6:00 pm
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704
(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com
Visitation: February 13, 2020 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704
(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com
I knew Gary when we were kids. He was always a gentle and sweet boy. He grew to be the same as a man. Rest n peace old friend💔
Barb Matthews Petro, We went to School together at Edgewood.
I enjoyed being on Facebook and seeing his post. I would always say something about it or
share it. May he rest in peace. Prayers for his family and friends.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
He was a wonderful neighbor, always kind and thoughtful. He will be missed.
Knew “Mikk” and family from the Son’s of Italy in Ashtabula. Always enjoyed a Genesee beer and a game of pool with him. Spent time here in N. C. When we started working together in early 1980’s. Gonna miss you dude, or as Gary would say, “ain’t it?!”.
Gary was my brother-in-law I was shocked when I read about his passing Gary my thoughts and prayers are with them. R.I.P brother
Gary was one of my favorite classmates.. We were both skinny little Finn’s… We were in several classes together and ate lunch together… He was a great friend!! After school he joined the Navy and I the Marines… I jokingly always made fun of the Navy ….. telling him that the Navy was always taking me somewhere and dropping me off where there was a bunch of little people mad at me!!!! I will miss that fin biscuit!!! Save me a spot sailor!! R.I.P.
Gary was my cousin. I never saw much of him but he was always friendly and easy going. My thought are with the family at this sad time.
I will always remember Gary Mikkonen as being a good, c and pleasant guy to work with. He was very courageous and positive during his long illness. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his Family . Rest in Peace my friend and Happy Trails.