James C. Mickus

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Mickus, James C. Age 85, of Savage died peacefully on May 29, 2019 at The Pillars Hospice Home in Oakdale. Jim was born on December 7, 1933 in New Prague to Clement and Luverne (Nolden) Mickus. He attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, graduated from New Prague High School, attained his undergraduate degree from St. Thomas University, and his Masters and PhD from the University of Minnesota. Jim taught chemistry at St. Thomas for 5 years and then worked in technical and commercial management for Cargill for 30 years. Jim was very active in The National Feed Ingredients Association and held a variety of positions within the organization, culminating as president in 1977. He was also a member of the American Chemical Society and authored multiple published papers and patents. His professional career continued into retirement when he owned his own consulting business to various technical and commercial companies. Jim married the love of his life, Joan Reichelt, on November 21, 1959 in Wheaton, IL. The couple made their home in Bloomington, MN, where they raised their three children and resided until 1998, when they moved to Savage and Sun Lakes, AZ. He was an active member of St. Edward's Catholic Church and was an inaugural council member for the Parish Council. Jim was passionate about many things in his life, not least of which was golf, enjoying outings with both his professional and personal friends and family. His greatest passion, however, came in spending time with his children and grandchildren, supporting them in their interests, such as fishing and hunting. He exposed them to all varieties of activities and felt it was important to experience life to the fullest in such activities like walks to nature centers, x-country skiing, Vikings games, and many trips. He loved travel throughout his life, both with his work and his family. Jim was a consummate people person, always ready to engage in a conversation and make a new friendship. Finally, he was an avid Tommie and U of M football fan. Jim is survived by his children, Colleen (Brian) Johnson, David (Gala) Mickus, Daniel (Susan) Mickus; grandchildren, Matthew, Michael, Jessie, Noah, Kevin, and Jamie; sister, Barbara Schoenbauer. He is preceded in death by his wife, Joan on May 29, 2014 & his parents. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at 11:00 AM at St. Edward's Catholic Church (9401 Nesbitt Ave. S., Bloomington, MN) with Father Rick Banker officiating. Visitation will take place at the church 1 hour prior to Mass. Private interment will take place later that afternoon at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in New Prague. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Park Nicollet Hospice and The Pillars Hospice Home.

Published on June 16, 2019