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Mooresville's Paul Mikeal was a veteran military pilot who was aware of the danger of flying a tanker plane to fight wildfires, but he also was a family man who enjoyed spending time with his wife and children.
Mikeal, a 42-year-old lieutenant colonel in the N.C. Air National Guard, was killed Sunday night in the crash of a C-130 Hercules plane that was fighting the White Draw wildfire in southwest South Dakota. MIkeal was a pilot, but it is not clear if he was piloting the plane when it went down.
On Monday, his mother-in-law, Grace Partridge, said Mikeal had spent his last day at home before deployment on firefighting duties with his family.
She said her son-in-law recently bought a pair of kayaks, and the two had rowed across Lake Norman together on Friday. The next day, Mikeal and other members of the 145th Air Wing, based in Charlotte, left for duty in Colorado.
Mikeal told a reporter with a Denver-based website Saturday that he was looking forward to returning home later this week to spend time with his family. Partridge said Mikeal and his wife, Marlo, were preparing to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary next week.
Mikeal entered the Air Force after college as a commissioned officer in 1991. He met his future wife at UNC Charlotte, where she also was in the ROTC. She entered the Air Force a year after him, and the pair soon wed.
Mikeal was the father of a 15-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son.
"He was a real family man," Partridge said. "They liked to go out to the lake (Norman) boating. He took his son fishing a lot."
She said Mikeal had served on numerous deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan since the wars started, as a C-130 pilot. She said the family worried about his safety.
"It's something we all worried about, but he never really said anything about it," Partridge recalled. "He wasn't the type to complain. He had a passion for flying."
In the interview with the Denver website, Examiner.com, Mikeal talked about the dangers of fighting fires from the air.
"We have to worry about getting in and out of the mountains," he said. "The plane does not perform quite as well in the high altitudes."
150 Entries
May the God of all comfort be with the family in your time of healing.
Jo Ann
July 23, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. I met Paul first as a young boy and again when his grandfather Junior passed away. My father Coy was Junior's brother. I'm am heartsick for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers.
yvette mikeal jones
July 13, 2012
Thank you for your service. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Ann and Will Plentl (LTC Ret) 145th
July 13, 2012
Marlo,
I know it has been forever since we spoke but you and Paul were some of my fondest memories from Dyess. My prayers go out to you and the kids.
Amy Moser (Elliott)
July 12, 2012
South Dakota is forever grateful for your help during the White Draw Fire. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten. May you RIP. God bless
July 12, 2012
Paul started out his C-130 flying career as a member of the 2d Airlift Squadron at Pope AFB, Fayetteville NC. I was the Squadron Commander at the time Paul first arrived at Pope. He was a fine officer and a talented pilot. Melissa and I send our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Paul's family and many friends.
Mark Gibson
July 12, 2012
Marlo and Family,
Paul was a great man, officer and patriot. We all have fond memories of our time in ROTC. My family's thoughts and prayers go out to you in this time. God bless.
Lt Col Jonas Skinner
July 12, 2012
One of the finest men and officers I have ever known! Paul's commitment to his job and his country was exceeded only by his commitment to his wife and children. He was a role model, a mentor and friend; it was truly my honor to have known and flown with Paul. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Lt Col (Ret.) John Hall
July 11, 2012
Although I did not have the pleasure of knowing Paul personally, I knew him as a brother aviator and hero to all who did know him. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Lee Huntsinger MSgt, USAF, Retired
July 10, 2012
Marlo, Amanda, Liam and the Mikeal family - My sincerest condolences to you all. I was friends with Paul in college and was in Chi-Rho with him. He was always smiling and positive about life. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the future. God speed Paul.
Kay (Fandel) Click
July 10, 2012
Marlo & Family,
Unfortunately bad news travels fast. I am so sorry to hear about Paul. Certainly there are no real words that comfort at a time like this. Just know that people through out the world care about you guys. It seems like it was just yesterday that we were all at Det 592. How the years have flown by. I will keep you guys in my prayers for strength to help you through this terrible time.
Lt Col Jerry C. McDaniel (Ret)
July 9, 2012
To the family of Paul On behalf of the 8000 firefighters of South Dakota our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Firefighters of this Nation are family and we should never forget the sacrifice that our families make in serving their citizens. We have pledged to never forget their sacrifice and we never will. The words of Benjamin Franklin can never be truer than right now, “They do it not for the sake of reward or fame; but they have a reward in themselves, and they love one another.”
Although we have never met, may it help in some small way for you to know we too feel your loss. In your time of grief, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Dennis Gorton, President
South Dakota Firefighters Assn.
Dennis Gorton
July 9, 2012
Paul was such a great guy from a great family. He had a kind word for everyone as we trudged the halls of Clinton. My prayers go with the family. He was a true hero in every sense of the word.
Rick Herrell
July 9, 2012
Marlo,
I was shocked and heartbroken to hear about Paul's accident from other UPT 93-06 classmates. I have not seen you for so many years yet it seems like yesterday we were all sitting in the squadron together. When I think of Paul I think of an incredibly kind and optimistic person; he made everyone around him feel happy and cheerful. My heart goes out to you and your children - Paul will be so missed.
Marisa (Flo) Tucker
July 9, 2012
Dear Marlo,
I'm truly so sorry for your loss. Paul was a wonderful, sweet man and I will always remember how deeply and genuinely he loved you. May God lift you up during this painful time.
Your friend from Abilene,
Crissy Inmon (Morgan)
Crissy Inmon
July 7, 2012
Paul was one of my favorite pilots when he flew us in aeromed. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Deb Wilfong
July 7, 2012
Dear Marlo, We are thinking about you, Amanda & Liam during this difficult time. Our prayers are with you. We are truly thankful for Paul's heroic & dedicated service to our country & others.
Love & Peace,
Brent & Tammy Cline
Tammy Cline
July 7, 2012
Marlo, Amanda, and Liam -
There are no words to express how sincerely sorry we are for your loss. Our family is keeping you in our prayers and close to our hearts during this incredibly difficult time.
Cindy, Stephanie, & Brian Smith
July 7, 2012
Here's a toast... GodSpeed Paul on your flight into the sunset.
Lt Col Joe Shahid
July 7, 2012
thank you for all you do
megan HYMAN
July 6, 2012
Paul and I were distant cousins but I considered him an older brother in the AF. I attended ROTC at UNCC a few years after him and then ended up flying C-130's, as well, so airmen often asked me if I was related to Paul. I was always proud to claim him as family because he was held in such high esteem. We first met in a tent in the early days of OEF on the other side of the world and had lunch a few times over the years. He was a great guy. My deepest sympathy to Paul's family…he was always proud of you.
Maj Travis Mikeal
July 6, 2012
To the family of this brave American pilot, our deepest condolences. The people of Clinton, TN. are very proud of him and his family. Our thoughts are with you.
Laurie Kohler
July 6, 2012
He will be missed by the Class of 87. He was a hero and a fine example of a man who severed his country to protect us. Godspeed Paul!
Kim Evans-Russell
July 6, 2012
Paul is a true hero and we pray that God will wrap his arms around you and your family in the aftermath of this tragedy. God Bless and keep you.
Lt Col Mark Jernigan
July 6, 2012
Marlo and children,
It's a challenge to come up with the right words to say how sorry we are for the loss of your beloved husband and father. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. The Nemeth Family
July 5, 2012
Marlo, may God bless you and comfort you, Liam and Amanda during this time. You are in our prayers.
Theresa, Brian, Michael and Danny Burbidge
July 5, 2012
Marlo, I have been so upset about Paul since I heard the news, we were very blessed to have brave men and women like you and Paul serving our Country, I didn't realize he was still serving. As you know, I understand what it's like to lose your husband, i am praying for you and your family,Love Toni < .
Toni Oxidine
July 5, 2012
Dear Marlo,
God bless you and your family at this difficult time.
Keith Wilson
July 5, 2012
Marlo,
Please except our most heartfelt sympathy for your loss. We will always remember Paul as a good friend and his dedication and service to our country.
Johnny and Donna Patterson
July 5, 2012
My Brother My HERO
July 5, 2012
My deepest sympathy to you and your family Marlo. Thank you for Paul's service and dedication. Many continued prayers for you.
Jan Carlson
July 5, 2012
Marlo,
We are deeply grieved by your loss. We will be praying for you, Amanda and Liam.
Kim and Teresa Harison
July 5, 2012
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. God Bless You.
Bob & Christy Bensley
July 5, 2012
Joel Davis
July 5, 2012
All of our love and prayers are with your family. We shall forever hold Paul in our hearts and his sacrifice will always be remembered.
Joel and Pam Davis
July 5, 2012
May God provide comfort to you in this time of mourning the loss of Lt. Col. Mikeal. No doubt integrity, service before self, and excellence are values that would describe his crew in life and in death. From a fellow C-130 crew member...Godspeed.
Tom Shockley
July 5, 2012
Marlo and family,
I am so sorry for your loss! I am a fellow alum of UNC-Charlotte, Air Force ROTC Det. 592 (1995 Commissioning Class) and have fond memories of you all. May you rest in the peace and comfort of God as you go through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rachelle McCormick Flowers, Maj, USAFR
July 5, 2012
Please accept our condolences for your deep loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Anne and Roger Youngs
July 5, 2012
Marlo,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this tragic loss. We will always remember Paul and for his love of flying and his great smile. May God Bless you and your family and provide you with the strength during this difficult time.
Elizabeth & Andy Bobovnik
July 5, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. We were all shocked to hear about Paul. No words can truly reflect how deeply saddened we are. He was a great leader, father and man. We will truly miss him. Travis Childs & family
Travis Childs
July 4, 2012
Marlo, Amanda and Liam,
We are heartbroken over the loss of Paul. We mourn the loss but celebrate his beacon of light throughout his life.
Ed and Paul served together at Pope AFB and then reunited in Charlotte while both were at the Guard Unit. Paul's visits to us in Savannah during "flight work" were always a treat for our family. I always told Ed that Paul was one of my favorites and he was always welcome to visit...whenever.
And that was Paul...welcomed and cherished wherever he was by whom ever was lucky enough to know him.
May you be surrounded by your friends, family, faith and memories during this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers to your entire family.
Sympathies,
LTC Ed Black and Lisa, Emme and Mary Scott Black
Melbourne,FL
July 4, 2012
My son use to fly C-130's and that makes them and all who are crew members special to me as is the Air Force. Mrs Mikeal, I'm praying for you and your family to get you through this terrible time. God is with you.
Charlotte Kennedy
July 4, 2012
Dear Marlow, We want to let you know that we are heartbroken to hear of your loss. We have wonderful memories of you and Paul and will cherish the friendship that he gave so freely. He was such a blessing to this world. We can only pray for you all during this time, hoping that you may find comfort from the love of your family and friends. With the deepest sympathy, Tom and Janine Willis
July 4, 2012
Marlo
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and Connie. Remember all the good times because they will see you through. God be with you all, Jan
Jan Simmons
July 4, 2012
Paul was a special person. In high school he was always a generous friend to me. I thank God for making him the "hero" that he became. We pray you and your family will always lean on the everlasting arms of God. Much love to you from my family.
Bobbie "Washington" Rowe
July 4, 2012
While I did not know this aviator, I was a Herky pilot during Vietnam conflict. I can only guess that fighting fires was at least as dangerous as Vietnam was. Go in Peace and know that your God loves you.
William Marshall
July 4, 2012
Marlo,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children during this difficult time.
Angela Berrong - Wooten
July 4, 2012
Paul was one of the finest young officers that I have ever worked with. I will remember him and Marlo as a team. Paul loved his family and his country and I know that God will provide for him and his family.
Fuzzy Conejo
July 4, 2012
Marlo,
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We send you all our deepest sympathies on this tragic loss of Paul.
We thank Paul for his service .
Darla & Tom Tomburo
Darla & Tom Tomburo
July 4, 2012
My deepest condolences to Lt Col Mikeal's family and his National Guard "family".
Kimberly Sencindiver, Col, ANG
July 4, 2012
A true American hero. May God bless your friends, family and loved ones at this time of much sorrow. My thoughts and prayers go out to each and every one of you.
Krystal Chandler
July 4, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Cathy and Steve Johnson
July 4, 2012
His bravery and dedication will always be remembered. To your family we send our deepest condolences. Our prayers are with you.
Turkovics Family
July 4, 2012
My heart goes out to Marlo, the children, and the family during this time of tragic loss. I pray that God will comfort you now and the future. Paul's legacy of service to country is an inspiration.
Richard Brown, Colonel, USAFR (ret)
Huntsville, Alabama
July 4, 2012
My prayers go with you Sir an will be lifting your familey in this sad day!
Dale Schnaible
July 4, 2012
Very sorry for you loss. Thank you so much for your service at home and overseas.
Greg and Lisa King
July 4, 2012
So sorry.
Patsy and LC Dechent
July 4, 2012
Paul,
You are missed but you are in good company with your dad, junebug, and other family and friends in heaven. Junebug knows all the great fishing places in heaven, I am sure. I remember just a few weeks ago when you came to the farm to fish with your son. We talked a few minutes as I had other chores to do. I look forward to continuing our visit in heaven as we fish together. May God care for your family until there is agreat family reunion in heaven. Kerry Krider-Todd, NC
Kerry Krider
July 4, 2012
He gave his life to help save ours here in the Black Hills. We are indebted to him and his family for your sacrifice of love. God bless you and keep you!
Jayne
July 4, 2012
Marlo, I think of you often and am saddened to hear of this loss. My words fail me at this time but you and your children are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sherrie Chandler
July 4, 2012
I'm so very sorry to hear of your huge loss. Our thoughts and prayers are w/ you. Liam, I'll be praying for you daily.
Lyndsey Gresehover
July 4, 2012
May God comfort during your time of loss. My prayers are with all of you. May he give you his great strength to deal with this enormous loss. Psalm 121, look up whence cometh your help..amen.
Jerry Huber
July 4, 2012
As a VT flight surgeon who deployed with Paul to Afghanistan this past year, I had an all too brief chance to meet and work with him. He was a friendly, funny, quality person. A real southern gentleman. I am sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family. I know he will be missed. Rest in peace.
Lt Col David Jones, VTANG, MC, FS
July 3, 2012
Col. Mikeal and his family have my deepest appreciation for his service and their sacrifice. I am very sorry for your loss.
July 3, 2012
Marlo, our thoughts are with you and your childen, as well as Connie. God bless you in this time of need...Scott and Kathryn Mikeal
Kathryn Mikeal
July 3, 2012
bless you for what you and your crew gave up for others in need.My sorrow is for you and your families, I know I miss mine,
July 3, 2012
The whole nation is indebted to this valiant airman and his crew. May God comfort you at this time of loss and grief. His Love surpasses all understanding. A fellow C-130 crewmember and guardsman.
Rob Crawford
July 3, 2012
Paul was always a great person (even growing up). I'm proud to have known him and proud of his service to our country. Many prayers for you and your family.
Kristie Teffetteller
July 3, 2012
Marlo, Amanda & Liam, We were sooo... sorry to hear the devistating news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this heartbreaking time. We love you all and will miss Paul. We are so thankful for his service and dedication to our country but most of all we are proud to hear what a wonderful husband and father he has been. If there is anything we can do for you, just let us know. May God's comforting spirit envelope your family to ease the pain. We love you. Aunt Darla, Uncle Garold & Sarah
July 3, 2012
We feel like we knew Paul as Connie talked about him so lovingly and often at Choices Resource Center, where she volunteers as a nurse. We are aching for you all and praying for God's comfort in this time.
Stephanie Miles
July 3, 2012
We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Ernie and susan Pither
July 3, 2012
Marlo, Amanda and Liam, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We came to know your family when Joey and Liam became friends in school and we lift you in our prayers for comfort and strentgh. Brian, Marie and Joey Buzynski
Marie Buynski
July 3, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Marlo. We will always have the fondest meories of Paul while you were our neighbors.
Tom & Vickie Poston
Tom Poston
July 3, 2012
Although there are no words, know that there are many praying and holding your familly up in prayer. Heartbroken for your loss.
Josh, Meagan, Ryan , and Lauryn Stanek
July 3, 2012
Marlo,Amanda & Liam,
Words can't express the sadness that I feel in my heart for you all. I pray that God will wrap his arms around you all and give you strength and peace during this difficult time. I am sincerely sorry for your loss. Thank you to Paul for being such a courageous and dedicated service man. His hard work is greatly appreciated.
Kellie Gordon
July 3, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all...
Scott, Heather, & Hannah Axtell
July 3, 2012
Marlo,Amanda & Liam,
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. A true hero indeed.
The Sedota family
July 3, 2012
My son is a C-130 pilot and I understand the love that most pilots have of their country and their flying. May the good Lord hold your husband, those with him, those recovering, and their families in the palm of his hand. I have no doubt that he was a great husband, father, brother, son, colleague and a patriot. People with thoses stunning and loving qualities, leave an empty spot in this world that we may not be able to feel, but it's there nonetheless. We are all diminished, but all the good things he has given us will be remembered and will prevail. My heart breaks for all of you and I add my prayers and my deepest sympathy to all the others
Nancy Dickens
July 3, 2012
LtCol Mikeal was a fine man and a great loss to everyone that knew him. My thoughts and prayers to his family. RIP
MSgt Craig Fish NCANG (Ret)
July 3, 2012
The Mikeal family~
We are so saddened by your recent loss. Paul was a true hero and will be greatly missed.
Tim, Lisa, Alexa and Nickolas Arnold
July 3, 2012
We are deeply saddened by your loss! Your family is in our thoughts and prayers!
Stephanie Crisco
July 3, 2012
Paul will be greatly missed & our prayers are with his entire family. We praise him for his dedicated service to others.
The Tuttles
July 3, 2012
Marlo, Amanda and Mikeal,
We are shocked and saddedned to hear about Paul's plan crash. What a hero he is!!! We pray that God comforts you today and the days to come. Paul was an extraordinary dad, husband and pilot. There is an old irish blessing that says... May The Road Rise to Meet You, May The Wind Always Be At Your Back and until we Meet Again May God Hold You in the Palm Of Your Hand. We pray that God Holds You and Comforts You in this sad time. All of Our Love,
Maureen, DelMar and Samantha Laury
Maureen Laury
July 3, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. As a retired 20 yr veteran of the NCANG, it didn't matter that we didn't know each other, we're all part of the Guard family.
Debbie Fletcher
July 3, 2012
Marlo, Liam and Amanda, I cannot express how sorry I am for your loss.
My son, Lt.Col Gene McFalls USAF, was comissioned with you, marlo and was in your wedding.
Paul was a hero and a Great Amerian.
Thanks for his and your service and for sharing him with America through his deployments and saving lives in these fires.
We are so fortunant in America to have
Paul.
Keep his memories as he will always live on in them.
God bless you all.
George D. McFalls
July 3, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss, please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Jack Cochran
July 3, 2012
Your loss is unimaginable. I was proud to know Lt Col Mikeal and my prayers and thought are with your entire family at this time
Jessica Schlemmer 2 Lt
July 3, 2012
At this time words are weak and hollow. Our prayers are with your family. A very humble thank you for your sacrifice in defense of others.
Dave & Tess Huff
Lombard IL
July 3, 2012
Paul was a great father, husband, friend, but most of all a great man. He will be truly missed by all and we appreciate his service to our country. His family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless them through this difficult time.
Phil, Vonna, Austin, Nathan, Logan Holbrook
July 3, 2012
Paul came to help us in our time of need. The idea that this generosity led to his not coming home is so hard to take. Please know that there are many South Dakota citizens who will never forget Paul's sacrifice for us.
Pamela Davis
July 3, 2012
Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God give you the peace and solice.
John and Eleanor Whidden
July 3, 2012
May the peace that only God can provide be with your family and friends in the days ahead. We are all indebted to heroes like you. THANK YOU!
Brian Johnson
July 3, 2012
We are so sorry your loss. We feel blessed to have known Paul and our prayers are with you.
Beverly and Chris Brown
July 3, 2012
To the Mikeal Family
I was so sorry to hear this news.
My Sympathy, Thoughts and prayers
go out to the Mikeal family and
to all those that lose their lives.
on this mission. God bless those that
serve our country. May god be with all of you at this time.
Tsgt J.D.Smith Jr. NCANG (Retired)
J.D. Smith Jr.
July 3, 2012
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. May God comfort you and give you strength.
Cathy Palmer
Cathy Palmer
July 3, 2012
My thoughts and prayers have been sent for all of you. I have the pleasure to work with STARBASE and be on the planes.
Milton Bland
July 3, 2012
Marlo, Liam and Amanda - we are so sorry for your loss. I was priviledged to be your neighbor and to see what a great husband and father Paul was. You are all in our prayers, and please let us know if we can do anything to help you.
Candy, Mark, Drew and Avery Grace Ingle
Candace Ingle
July 3, 2012
Thank you for your service. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Melissa Smith
July 3, 2012
Thank you for the sacrifice of your dearly loved one. He obviously had a big heart for our country and those who live here. His military service will not be forgotten. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Kelly Whitaker
July 3, 2012
Dear Marlo, Amanda, and Liam, We are so sorry. Paul was a great man Thank you for sharing him with us. Love, The Sanchez Family
July 3, 2012
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