Dennis Eugene Mikkelson

Dennis Mikkelson, 81, was born in Freeman, South Dakota to Tom and Mary Mikkelson. Dennis was the youngest of three children; sister Lois Kaffun (deceased), and brother Lowell (deceased). The Mikkelson family moved to the Salem area when Dennis was 6 years old and he became a lifelong resident of West Salem; he attended West Salem grade school and Salem Academy. He was also a lifelong member of Salem's First Church of the Nazarene. After studying at Seattle Pacific for a short time, he returned to join his father in the family business; Mike's Septic Service.

August 23, 1952, Dennis married his high school sweetheart DeVonia Kleeman. Wedding bells still ringing, the Army sent Dennis to Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska. The base's basketball team discovered his skills and they traveled around Alaskacompeting against other Army and Airforce teams. His team took second place. DeVonia and their son Bradley (born in 1953), joined Dennis in Alaska for the duration of his time in the service. Returning to Salem, he rejoined his father in the family business. Their daughter Talana was born in 1956.

Dennis enjoyed playing basketball, snow-skiing, boating, traveling the U.S. in his motor home, taking cruises, and traveling to Europe. His family will always remember his fun-loving heart; he went to both Disneyland and Disney World multiple times with grandkids. He had a great zeal for life and a strong devotion to his family.

Survivors include: wife DeVonia, son Brad (Janice) Mikkelson, daughter Talana (Steven) Brutscher. Grandchildren: Greg (Heather), Andrew (Jacque), McKenna Mikkelson; Collin, Chandler and Brenna Brutscher; and two great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Wlliamette Valley Hospice and Jefferson Manor. Donations may be made to Willamette Valley Hospice or Salem's First Church of the Nazarene.

Private family services will be held at Willamette National Cemetery with Military honors. Arrangements by Restlawn Funeral Home.