William Dennis "Bill" Mikesell's Obituary
William Dennis Mikesell aka Bill, age 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 18, 1931, in Manistee, Michigan, to Wesley and Helen (Junkins) Mikesell. In his early years, Bill lived in Free Soil, Michigan, with his grandparents before his family settled in Muskegon, which he proudly called home for most of his life.
Bill graduated from Muskegon High School with the Class of 1949. He went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy during the Korean War, stationed in Guam, where he worked as a coder.
On October 2, 1954, Bill married the love of his life, Benita Mitchell, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Together, they shared 67 beautiful years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family.
Bill was a dedicated employee of Enterprise Brass Works (EBW), where he worked as a leadman/die cast engineer for many years before retiring in 1994.
A faithful servant of the Lord, he was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and later St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Bill generously gave of his time to both parishes, serving as a head usher and living out his faith through quiet devotion and service to others. He was truly a prayer warrior whose unwavering faith touched all who knew him.
Bill and Benita were honored to be among the founders of Right to Life of West Michigan. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.
An avid bowler, Bill spent over 15 years enjoying his time with Tony at the lanes, where he proudly achieved a perfect 300 game. He and Benita also enjoyed camping, traveling and dancing, especially Polka and square dancing. At home, Bill found joy in simple pleasures—playing cards (even if he claimed otherwise), a good game of cribbage, and creating his own homemade spaghetti sauce.
Bill had a special gift for working with his hands. Whether building birdhouses, tinkering at his workbench, or helping loved ones with projects, he was always ready to lend a hand. His workspace was often described as “organized chaos,” but he never failed to see a project through to completion.
Known for his quiet but unmistakable personality, Bill had a unique sense of humor that delighted his family—through jokes, silly songs, and made-up words that often left everyone “corn-fused.” He was a natural storyteller who loved sharing memories and life lessons, leaving a lasting impression on all who listened.
Bill’s kindness and love was extended not only to his family and friends but also beyond blood. He welcomed and accumulated several additional “sons, daughters and grandchildren” over the years. Bill cherished his beloved dogs that he cared for in his lifetime. Together, Bill and Benita created a home where everyone was welcome and loved as family.
Above all, Bill’s greatest joy was his family. He devoted his life to being a loving and supportive dad, and he extended that same care and dedication to his entire family. He will be remembered as a gentle, caring, and deeply loving man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Bill will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. He was the best man we ever knew.
He is survived by his nine children, Anthony (Kim Najera) Mikesell, Mary (George) Doppel, Denise Chirco, Bernard (Jodie) Mikesell, Elaine (Charles) Brinkert, Sarah Mikesell, John (LaShelle) Mikesell, Jill Mikesell and William (Marianne) Mikesell; 24 grandchildren, Melissa (Dave), Amy (Andrew), Rebecca, Katie (Jerry), Chloe (Mike), Michelle, Liedaway, Kira, Nicole, Joey, Nicholas (Kyley), Cameron, Greg, Jon, Andrew, Lorielle (Dale), Candice (Graham), Courtney, Kirsten, Steven (Lily), Caitria (Mike), Kieran (Evie), Allison, Cash, Drew (Austin), Braeden and Saeben; numerous great-grandchildren; and many great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; pup, Benji; and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Benita Mikesell; infant daughter, Sylvia Joy Mikesell; grandson, Aaron, MacPherson; beloved lap dog, Cee Cee; two brothers; and two sisters.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 239 W. Clay Ave., Muskegon, MI 49440 with visitation one-hour prior. A Visitation with the family will be held from 6-8:00 PM on Monday, April 20, 2026, at The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd, Muskegon, MI 49441 with a Rosary Service starting at 7:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bill’s honor can be directed to the Special Olympics Michigan, P.O. Box 795, Mount Pleasant, MI 48804. He will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com .
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