Michael-Pikal-Obituary

Michael J. Pikal

Mansfield Center, Connecticut

1939 - 2018

About

LOCATION
Mansfield Center, Connecticut

Obituary

Send Flowers

Michael J. Pikal, 78, a longtime resident of Mansfield Center, died suddenly on Monday, February 26, 2018 at his home. Born in Wadena, Minnesota on Aug. 17, 1939 he was the son of Harold and Sophie (Shirilla) Pikal and the loving husband of Janice L. (Klein) Pikal. Michael grew up in Minnesota...

Read More

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

The realization that Dr Pikal is not here with us is still saddening. Time will tell if this feeing will ever fade away. For sharing the knowledge, the teachings, the experiences and a part of you that is so positive and endearing Thank you Dr Pikal. Fond memories of the time I got to spend with you will always remain special.

I was saddened to learn of Dr. Pikal's passing. He has been one of the leading researchers in freeze drying for many years now and he will be sorely missed. He was one of the most available scientists I have had the pleasure of working with--his door was always open, he made time--sometimes when he had none to give. I am so glad to have hugged him hello on multiple occasions, each hug a memory of the man. My sincerest condolences to the entire Pikal family.

Our deepest condolences to dear Janice & family , Wayne & family . Thinking of everyone today as you bid farewell to husband , father , brother , grandfather , friend & colleague . We remember Mike as a youth growing up in Henning . Our times together in Calif are memorable ! He was a beloved neighbor , teammate ,classmate , & academic friend. Each encounter enjoyable. We enjoyed a renewal of our friendship two years ago ! We consider ourselves fortunate to have grown up...

I have a friend who searches obituaries through out the country for names associated with the name Lilly. I was both surprised and saddened to see Mike's obit in the Indianapolis Star yesterday. I hired Mike when I was head of Pharmaceutical Research. He was an excellent scientist who did a lot of great word while he was at Lilly. I was sorry to see him leave. Our condolences to Janice and the rest of the family.

Dr Pikal showed a high level of passion for science and cared for his students. He has touched number of lives and I am indebted for his help while I was a student. We will miss him dearly.

An amazing human being and a giant in his chosen art, truly loved by everyone whose life he touched. Leaving a legacy that will live forever and a void that may never be filled. You will be deeply missed, Professor Pikal!

Dr Pikal was an amazing scientist and an amazing person who cared about all the students.

Dr Pikal changed my life. He encouraged me to attend graduate school, coached me on choosing a graduate school advisor, and was a great coach and mentor. It was a blessing and honor to know him.



I worked with Mike at Eli Lilly and Company for many years. In addition to being a brilliant scientist, he was a true gentleman who was always considerate of his colleagues. Whenever I had a tough problem related to parenteral technology, I would go to his office and he would put his pipe in his mouth and start to think about possible solutions. He usually found the right one. He will be sorely missed.