David "Mick" Mickelson

1950 - 2026

David "Mick" Mickelson

May 30, 1950 - January 6, 2026

David "Mick" Mickelson

David "Mick" Mickelson-fun-loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend-passed away on January 6, 2026, at UF Health in The Villages, Florida.

David Edward Mickelson was born on May 30, 1950, to Ernest "Pete" Mickelson and Jeanette (Johnson) Mickelson in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Growing up with his three siblings-Tom, Jeannie, and Tim-and just down the road from his cousins Steve Johnson and Connie (Johnson) Cranford, Mick enjoyed an adventurous childhood surrounded by family and the many kids of Eau Claire's west side. These early experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong love of fun, connection, and enduring friendships.

Mick graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1968. Around that time, he fell in love with his classmate, Linda Carlson. Mick's razor-sharp wit and natural charisma paired perfectly with Linda's bubbly, warm-hearted personality, making them a couple whose presence was always in high demand at parties and social gatherings. Their love story became the center of countless lifelong friendships.

Dave and Linda were married on November 6, 1971, and together they were proud parents to two sons, Matt and Jack. Mick often joked, "I only make boys." He spent countless hours at baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and golf courses-coaching, cheering, and making sure every kid and parent was having fun. His unique approach to drafting Little Leaguers famously resulted in more than one league championship at the Delong baseball fields.

These traits made Mick a natural salesman. He truly found his niche during the peak of Yellow Pages advertising, rising to the position of Division Sales Manager with AT&T. He was passionate about recruiting and mentoring young sales representatives and took great pride in their successes long after retirement, maintaining friendships with colleagues decades after their working relationships ended.

Mick retired at the young age of 50-and somehow excelled even more in retirement than he had professionally. This chapter allowed him to fully embrace his favorite role: Grandpa. Pontoon rides, golf cart rides, and snuggles on the recliner always took priority when his grandchildren were around. In 2010, Mick and Linda officially became Snowbirds, moving to their winter home in The Villages, Florida. Ever the trendsetter, Mick encouraged family and friends to follow, creating fun-filled winters in Florida and unforgettable summers on the lake in Chetek. One of his greatest joys later in life was being a devoted "dog dad" to Pete-Linda often joked he was the "only kid" Mick actually took to the park. Mick had a rare gift for finding the optimistic angle in any situation. His positivity made him a magnet wherever he went. If you were with Mick, there was never a question if you were going to have a good time-only how long you could make it last. The Mick stories are endless, and he will be remembered with one simple description: LEGENDARY.

Mick leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, adventure, and compassion. He will be deeply missed by his devoted sons Matt (Jaclyn) and Jack (Nicole); his wonderful grandchildren Lexi (Steve), Emma (Cole), Katie, Lilly, and Scarlett; his precious great-granddaughter Ila; and his beloved dog, Pete. He is also survived by his sister Jeanne (Harvey) Storm; brother Tim (Maryanne) Mickelson; brother-in-law Richard Carlson; and brother-in-law Don (Carol) Carlson, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was joyfully reunited with his loving wife Linda; parents Pete and Jeanette; brother Tom Mickelson; sister-in-law Mary Carlson; and special cousin Steve Johnson.

The family is pleased to invite you to a celebration honoring Mick and Linda on Saturday, June 6th beginning at 3:00p.m. "Mickelpalooza" will be held at the family cabins, 877 25 3/8 Street Chetek, Wisconsin.

One last request: please raise a "Micktini" (or two) in his honor-and remember, "Don't dump that ice…that's good ice. It's seasoned."