Joseph G. Mikusko, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend went peacefully to his heavenly home on Saturday, March 21. He was 88.
The son of the late Anna (Lednicky) and George Mikusko, Joe was born on July 25, 1931.
Upon graduation from Sacred Heart Catholic School, he served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He traveled Europe and built many friendships during his military career.
He married his love of 62 years, Jacqueline (Jackie) Darland on September 7, 1957. She survives him.
Joe attended college at Central Michigan University and Ferris State University. He then taught school at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Merrill, and later secured a position with Dow Chemical in Midland. He retired after 27 years in 1989. In retirement, Joe and Jackie could often be found drinking coffee on their back yard swing. He also enjoyed spending time in his garage, volunteering at church and in his community of Merrill, gardening, fishing, and watching the hundreds of birds that would visit his many feeders.
While his 7 children were in school, he could be found faithfully attending almost every sporting event they were involved in. Left to cherish those memories are his 4 sons and 3 daughters, Lori (Michael) Reichard, Chris (Tammy) Mikusko, Melisa (David) Erbe, Lisa (Bret) Baker, Craig (Tammy) Mikusko, Matthew Mikusko, and Joel (Vicki) Mikusko.
Joe enjoyed his 9 grandchildren and leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his siblings Edward, George, Robert, Ann, Marge, and Helen.
Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2020, at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Rev. Fr. Michael Steltenkamp, S.J. will officiate.
Joe will forever be remembered for his patience, sunny outlook on life, helping others, and being a faithful provider for his family. He will be greatly missed.
Mr. Mikusko's committal may be viewed here