We are sad to announce the death of Patrick Mikel, Pat, Pee-Wee on July 31, 2022. He was cared for lovingly by his partner Kris and son Thomas, the last month while in and out of the hospital. He was 64 years old. It was unexpected and we will miss him dearly.
Pat was a resident of Federal Way, WA where he lived with his beautiful partner for over 20 years Kristin Ancheta and where he raised his two children, Thomas and Shelby.
Pat was born in Missoula, Montana on November 1, 1957. He was the second of the six children to Tom Mikel and Shirley Mikel. He was a rambunctious and mischievous child and channeled that energy into sports. He was a star athlete at both Pacific Middle School and Mount Rainier High School and later went on to Western WA State College then on scholarship to Columbia Basin College.
More than one friend has said “he was probably the best quarterback Mt.Rainier high school ever had.” He was fast, tough, agile and fiercely competitive. He lettered in football, basketball and track for multiple years. He had many friends and acquaintances who looked up to him and have acknowledged their appreciation and respect for him. Unfortunately, sports injuries in college became a limitation in his sports endeavors and pain became a lifelong endurance. He seldom complained but for someone so athletic it must have been difficult.
He worked in the oil industry on the slope in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, for over 30 years. He was a diligent, hard worker and became a supervisor for quite a crew. It was grueling and dangerous work and he was in charge of many employees over the years. One of his crew remembers him starting off each morning meeting with a word for the day that no one had ever heard before. His ability to lead and teach was a testament to his intelligence, being well read, care and commitment to the job and people for whom he was responsible. He seemed to take on that role early. Many of his friends told of him sticking up for them, helping them and friends in need even when it was not “popular” or easy. That’s who he was. But he could also be a hellion, talk himself up and be quick to tease! He kept us entertained and humbled because most of what he said about himself and us, was true!
He married twice. With first wife Bernadette, he had his two children who survive him, Thomas Mikel and Shelby Mikel. They were the light of his life and he was devoted and still delighted by their presence in his life. His partner, Kris Ancheta, is also survived and she will be lost without his banter, love and devotion. She appreciates the family and friends who have reached out in so many ways to express their condolences and high regard for Pat Mikel in their life over the years. His father Tom Mikel and sister Nancy Ann and best friend Bob Reynolds preceded him in death. Pat is survived by his mother Shirley Mikel and siblings Lynn, Sue, Judy, Kurt and Joe Mikel who are heartbroken and say goodbye reluctantly but with love and sweet memories for being our Pat and influencing us all in such powerful ways. Our family won’t be the same but we see you with Dad, peaceful and supporting us from this new place!
An informal gathering was put together by his children, Kris and mother Shirley on August 5.
A formal celebration of Pat’s life will be held: September 18th at the Fife Community Center at 1:00 PM. 2111 54th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424
