Millard L. Michalski

“Mike” Millard Louis Michalski

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that our family says, “We love you and will see you later,” to an incredible man.

Mike (Millard Louis) Michalski was a devoted son, husband, father, brother, grandpa, great-grandpa, great-great-grandpa, and friend to many. At 101 years young he passed peacefully from this life into the waiting arms of his Savior on January 5, 2026.

Born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Andrew and Gertrude Michalski, Mike grew up alongside his two brothers, Gilbert and Gerald, and proudly held the title of “Uncle Mike” to many nieces and nephews.

Mike graduated from St. Francis High School in Council Bluffs and, eager to serve his country during a time of great need, enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. He served in the Pacific Theater, where he fought in defense of freedom during one of the most challenging and defining conflicts in world history. Like many of his generation, Mike rarely spoke of the hardships he endured, but his quiet strength, deep patriotism, and lifelong commitment to service reflected the sacrifices he made as a young man far from home.

Following his naval service, Mike continued his dedication to country by serving an additional 28 years with the Iowa National Guard, retiring with the rank of Major.

His professional life also included 28 years with the Rock Island Railroad in Walnut Grove, and later he retired as Plant Manager for Boudin Manufacturing.

In his younger years, Mike enjoyed playing baseball, boxing, and basketball. In the spring of 1947, after a baseball game in Atlantic, Iowa, Mike stopped by Quicks Ice Cream Shop—a moment that would change his life forever. Behind the counter stood a beautiful, dark-haired, blue-eyed young woman named Jeanie Wilkins. That November, Mike and Jeanie were married, beginning a lifelong partnership.

Together, they raised three children: Michael (Sandra, Utica, MS), Pamela Klindt (Pete, deceased, Des Moines, IA), and Richard (deceased; Lindsay, Van Meter, IA). Mike and Jeanie were blessed with eight grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren. They made Atlantic, Iowa their long-time home and were devoted members of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

An avid sportsman, Mike found great joy in hunting and fishing. Decades of annual fishing trips to Minnesota, Greers Ferry, Arkansas, and Canada were among his most treasured memories—especially the time spent in Canada with his sons, grandsons, and dear friends.

To say Mike lived a full and rich life would be an understatement. A proud patriot, he viewed life through a lens of service, duty, and devotion to family. Providing for those he loved was simply his way of life.

Though Mike will be deeply missed, we find comfort in the stories shared and the memories that will continue to grow richer with time.

A Celebration of Life

Thursday, January 29, 2026

2:00 PM

The Friendship Home

714 North Division Street

Audubon, Iowa

Refreshments to follow the service

In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully accepts monetary gifts to be used as a memorial to The Friendship Home.

Interment

Friday, January 30, 2026

12:30 PM

Veterans Memorial Cemetery

Van Meter, Iowa

The family of Mike Michalski extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff of The Friendship Home. Mike was a resident for seven years and was treated with love, compassion, and exemplary care, making his final years truly feel like home.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Audubon, IA.