Robert William "Ratchetman" Mikulak, 54, joined his beloved son Glenn in Heaven on Friday, November 2, 2012.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 5, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home conducted by Rev. Christopher Murphy. Burial will follow in Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Robert was born July 17, 1958 in Okinawa, Japan, son of the late Michael Paul Mikulak and Ruth Agnes England Mikulak.

He was the owner and operator of the Ratchetman Auto Repair Shop in Front Royal and served the local community for over twenty years. He was an outstanding father and friend.

Surviving are his daughter, Robin Mikulak of Front Royal; loving companion, Julie Grove of Linden; two brothers, Paul Michael Mikulak and wife Kim of Roanoke, VA and Thomas Andrew Mikulak and wife Alice of Madison, VA; a step-mother, Lorraine Mikulak of Jacksonville, FL; and nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Glenn Mikulak.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 12:00-2:00 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in the name of Robert and Glenn Mikulak to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 11800 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191 or to a charity of your choice.

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Published by Northern Virginia Daily from Nov. 2 to Nov. 3, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Mikulak

Sponsored by Sean O'Reilly.

50 Entries

Mitch Walker

November 11, 2014

Robert was inspirational and taught me a lot, not only about vehicles and business but about being a good human being. You will live forever in my thoughts as a poet, friend, father, philosopher and true humanitarian. It could be years between seeing him and it was always like coming home. It was an honor knowing you and a blessing being a part of your life...Thank You for Everything.

kim mikulak

November 27, 2013

Robert, your brother Paulie and I miss you still very much. There isn't a day goes by we dont talk about you or think of how we miss you so. That the family dynamic'services isn't the same without you. I'm sure your with my daddy now too since he passed away Sept. 20, 2013 leaving my mom a widow now. Have fun up there and keep our places warm for us so we'll be up there someday. God Bless you all. God is I Am. Love you Robert. Your Sis in law. Kim

February 1, 2013

I took my Subaru to Robert for many years and he was always generous with his time I only found out about his death from a friend last nite.It was a shock to hear and I am feeling sad today at the loss of such a gentle soul. Ginger 2/1/13

Sean O'Reilly

December 6, 2012

He was a mechanic's mechanic. I truly used to love taking my cars to him. He was like a loving physician--you knew the "patient" was in good hands

Lee mcafee

November 8, 2012

Honest and hard working guy,Robert...you will be missed by all who crossed your path.Take care my friend ,better things a wait you in Heaven,but gone too soon............

Mark Ferrell

November 8, 2012

My condolences to the Mikulak family for their recent loss. Robert & I were classmates in the early '70's in Liberia and only re-connected a few short years ago in Dallas at a school reunion. From the many entries here I can tell he was a very giving person and well liked in his community. RIP my friend.

Barbara and Ronald Cihlar (Paxton)

November 7, 2012

Please accept our deepest thoughts and condolences during this very difficult time.

Sarah L.

November 7, 2012

My heart goes out to everyone at this difficult time. I only met Robert a few times, and it breaks my heart to know that I will never get to truly know the father of my best friend, Robin. I love you Robin, and just know that you will always have me by your side to help you during this difficult time. The world has lost a beautiful soul. Rest in eternal peace, Robert.

Nancy Young

November 6, 2012

I only knew Robert for a short time, but he was one of the kindest, loving person I ever met. He treated my daughter like a queen and loved her very much.He always put others first and that was a positive thing about Robert. This world was a better place with him in it. My family will truly miss him so much. I loved you like a son Robert. Julie's Mom

Marlene Mayman (née Bruce)

November 6, 2012

Ratchetman, you were too young to have departed. Thank you for being such a valuable member of our community, through your mechanic business and road clearing/maintenance services in Skyland Estates. It was because of your son and other children like him that I performed at the MDA camp. My condolences to everyone affected.

November 5, 2012

We are all so sad to hear about Robert, we wish the best for all of you, please accept our condolences. David and Crystal and family.

November 5, 2012

Robert was one in a million! I was so forunate to have had his presence in my life. He was the most caring and thoughful human being that walked the face of this earth, not to mention the most caring father for his two children. That is one reason I fell in love with him. There will be a void in my life, but I know you are with me and watching over me. You are with your buddy Glenn now! You showed me how to love again, and if I had to do it all over again it would be with you! We had alot of plans that were not fullfilled, but do know I will always love and remember everything you shared with me about life. I will love you for ever sweet Robert. Your Jules

robert racing chappies rail

john

November 5, 2012

in line to drag race

john

November 5, 2012

Barry Tafraoui and Beverley Thompson Warrick

November 5, 2012

What a huge amount of loss for one family to bear in such a short of time. Our deepest sympathies to you all. We are saying prayers for you today.

November 5, 2012

Julie,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my families thoughts and prayers. Robert was a honest and hard working mechanic who not only maintained our fleet of vehicles where I work, but also maintained my personal vehicles. He was good at what he did and will truely be missed.

Sal and Genia Ortiz

Cynthia Deal

November 4, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to the Family .

Kim Mikulak

November 4, 2012

Robert, I have known you for about 50 years off and on. The first time was in Argentina when you, your brothers and I played house in and around my bunk beds. We had a great time then as our parents had a good time together too. Then there was the time in Liberia when we were older we all used to hand out cause we were in the same grade. Then our parents retired in Virginia. We hanged out a little then. I will always cherish all the time I've had the privilege to be with you. Now you rest in peace with your son, and your parents. I will know that you are always watching over us. We will make sure Julie is ok and safe. She loved you with everything she had. God Bless you Robert. I will never forget you, never forget how you loved working on cars. Maybe you'll have some up there you can give your T L C to keep you busy. Love you always,
Your Sis In Law
Kim Mikulak

Jay Baker

November 4, 2012

God Bless you Robert. You were a true friend who I will miss dearly. Rest in Peace my Liberian Brother..

November 4, 2012

Robert, my heart aches for you and your family. Rest in Peace my friend. I was a better person knowing you.

Drew Kelly

November 4, 2012

I spoke with Robert Wednesday when he diagnosed a problem I was having with my truck.
He was as honest and fair as anyone I ever met.
And no matter what he was doing, he always had time to talk.
He was always open to explaining in great detail what might be highly technical mechanical issues to those interested in learning.
He was ALWAYS cheerful and thoughtful.
He seemed to have a great heart….
and a great soul.
And will be missed by anyone who knew him.

Patrick & Linda Spangler

November 3, 2012

Robert was such a great mechanic, so very honest and reasonable. It was always a pleasure doing business with him because you could trust him. He was a good person and we feel lucky to have gotten to know him over the years. He will certainly be missed by many many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family after another tremendous loss. God Bless Robert........

fun cruising off road 2008

November 3, 2012

testing out the new handicap comtrols robert installed

John

November 3, 2012

a day out flying rc planes

John

November 3, 2012

mixing up some blue paint

John

November 3, 2012

color sanding the beatle

John

November 3, 2012

2009 Bugout

John

November 3, 2012

Good times at the races

John Taurozzi

November 3, 2012

Good Times

November 3, 2012

Glenda Mikulak

November 3, 2012

You taught me that love will cure all...and that we are all one. I am knowing that Glenn and You are on a magic carpet ride together. And your next journey has just begun with your little buddy!
We love you..

ingrid jolly and beth petersavage

November 3, 2012

Robert we will always light and hold a candle for you! But in the here and now we surely miss you...

Doug & Sharon Gilbert

November 3, 2012

We are truly sadened by the news of Robert's passing. He was a good man and a great father. Our hearts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God Bless you.

Best Dad Ever!!!!

Glenda Mikulak

November 3, 2012

Robin & Russ Stanley

November 3, 2012

Our hearts go out to the Mikulak family. Robert, you always had our unspoken admiration. I know you & Glenn are wrapped up in warm hug...& Robin & Glenda I know you are being embraced by them both as well. You will be greatly missed Robert, please give Curtis a kiss from us too when you see him....God Bless-

Ernie Geiman

November 3, 2012

Robert was the best and most honest mechanic I have ever known and was a true friend. We will miss, rest in peace.

Wendy Cloney

November 3, 2012

Robert
I saw you standing in the sunlight cast through the window of your shop, 11-1-12, fixing something, and I knew you were happy. Now you can travel at light speed. We will all miss your presence.
Thank you for your friendship. love

Alice Waggle

November 3, 2012

Dear Robin & Family,

Loss of Robert leaves a giant void in our community on so many levels. His skill & intelligence was an asset to everyone who knew him. Robert cared about people,he had time for everyone,he was patient and humorous. Robert was an excellent example of the very best Father.Robert will be sorely missed. I valued his friendship so much. God Fly You With Angels Robert. Love & Light, Alice

Vickie Garcia

November 3, 2012

MY HEART GOES OUT TO ROBERTS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HE WAS MY SONS ROCK SINCE HE WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. HE HELPED KELLY BUILD HIS FIRST VW. HE WAS HIS FRIEND AND MENTOR.HE HAD A HUGE HEART AND WAS SO HUMBLE. WE ALL WILL MISS YOU AND KELLY WILL MISS HIS FRIEND OF MANY YEARS. THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS YOU HAVE JOINED GLEN IN HEAVEN. WE WILL ALL MISS YOU " Rachet Man"

November 3, 2012

I asked Robert what song he wanted us to hear at this time, and this one came on Pandora. Thanks, Robert!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlVHXixAWvs

Maya Harpster

November 3, 2012

Robert "Ratchetman" was our mechanic, friend, and neighbor on the mountain for 20 years. He was always kind, honest and patient. I will miss the comfort of seeing his truck during snow storms and listening to his deep thoughtful conversations.

John Piette

November 3, 2012

Your family is in my prayers, Robert was always honest and talented and I don't remember him without a smile on his face.

Sarah DeBarr/Mangone

November 3, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss. Robert will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I am bless to have known him and share a part of my life with him as his friend.

Daphne Wysham

November 3, 2012

Robert was beloved by many, a devoted father, a great spirit, a kind, gentle, honest and generous man, who put love, friendship, and integrity above all else. Glenn surely welcomed him home with loving arms.

Tanya Gibbs

November 3, 2012

So sorry for your loss. Robert was a great man and poet. His kindness and generosity will always be remembered! Prayers and Blessings to all remaining here!

November 2, 2012

Thanks for always being so honorable...we always new we could trust you..Prayers for you and your family..may you rest in peace and love with your precious son, Glenn

Joyce Hudson

November 2, 2012

Sorry to hear of such a lost to many, many people. " Ratchman" was a wonderful person, he was helpful & kind & a geniune friend. He can now continue his joy in heaven with his son. This is such a sad time for all. Prayers to all his family and friends.

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