Vernon E. Mickelson

Vernon E. Mickelson, 86, of Libby, passed away peacefully in his sleep Monday, Sept. 17, 2007 at his home from natural causes.

Vern was born on Flag Day June 14, 1921 in Kenmare, N.D. to Otto and Edith Mickelson.

Vern was educated in a one room school house in rural Kenmare. He was raised on the family farm in a home filled with music. Vern's mother was a gifted pianist and shared her love of music with him. Self taught, Vern could play the keyboard, accordion and his favorite, the harmonica, which he played until his death. Birthday's and anniversaries were not complete until Vern played his wish for you.

His musical gift will be missed by all who loved him.

Vern married the love of his life Elna Nielsen on Nov. 16, 1943 in Norma, N.D. They lived in Kenmare for 27 years where Vern held numerous jobs, which included farming and construction.

They moved their family to Libby in 1970, where Vern worked for the St. Regis Paper Company. Then retired from Champion International in 1986.

Vern was a devoted husband and a compassionate father always providing for his large family. He will be remembered for his gift of gab, his endless jokes, a willingness to help others, a thankful heart and an ever ready smile. He enjoyed keeping a beautiful yard, singing and playing his harmonica and he was well known for his chicken dance.

He felt blessed to count his children among his riches. Vern will be leaving behind eight children that loved him very much.

He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly fifty five years in 1999, two brothers and three sisters.

He is survived by his children Diane Boeckel and her husband Gene of Phoenix, Ariz.; Darlene Komrosky and her husband Jerry of Fingal, N.D.; Judy Detrick and her husband John of Wheatland, Wyom.; Marvin Mickelson and his wife Debbie of Libby; Steve Mickelson of Spokane, Wash.; Robin Mickelson and his wife Dawn of Phoenix, Ariz.; Cindy Wagner of Libby; Kris Erickson and her husband Tom of Libby; 17 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, five step-great-grandchildren and a special lady friend Iola Calkins.

He was a member of the Libby Christian Church.

Services will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 21at the Libby Christian Church. Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m. on Thursday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday. Interment will follow at the City of Libby Cemetery. Local arrangements are by the Nelson & Vial Funeral Home in Libby. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Foundation.