Michael BRICKNER

1948 - 2026

Dec 31, 1948 - Feb 11, 2026

Michael Ross Brickner, born December 31, 1948, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to parents Tony and Ava Brickner, lived a life marked by dedication, adventure, and deep love for his family.

When Mike was six months old, his family moved from Aberdeen to Spokane, Washington, where he spent his childhood and formative years. He attended St. Francis Xavier Grade School and later graduated from Gonzaga Preparatory High School, building lifelong friendships and a strong work ethic that would define his career.

In 1968, Mike married Bonnie Parks, and together they welcomed two children, Jason and Tiffany, who remained the greatest joys of his life. That same year, he began what would become a distinguished 31-year career at the Kaiser Aluminum Mead plant. Starting in the potrooms as a laborer at the age of 19, Mike steadily advanced through roles including line foreman, general foreman, assistant superintendent, and ultimately superintendent of the potrooms, earning the respect of colleagues for his leadership, ability to work with the union, and extensive knowledge of the industry.

After his divorce from Bonnie in 1977, Mike remarried in 1979 to Margie Maguire, shortly before embarking on an extraordinary chapter abroad with his family. He accepted an assignment in Ghana, West Africa, where he worked with Kaiser for 7½ years. His work later took him on consulting assignments in Russia and Venezuela, but some of his fondest memories came from the opportunities to travel the world with his family. Together they explored Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, France, England, Spain, Greece, Egypt, Thailand, Hong Kong, and enjoyed visits to Disneyworld and even a safari in Kenya. During their time in Ghana, Mike and Margie honed their golf skills, took up tennis, spent many enjoyable hours playing bridge with friends, and enjoyed the beaches.

Mike retired from Kaiser in 1999 after 31 years of service. Retirement did not slow him down – he continued consulting within the aluminum industry, traveling extensively throughout the United States and returning once more to Venezuela for additional work. When he wasn't consulting, Mike and Margie continued to explore the United States, enjoying the freedom and adventure that retirement offered. He also took pleasure in staying fit at the gym and, for a time, pursued Go-Kart racing as a hobby.

Mike is survived by his children, Jason (Chrissy) and Tiffany Spear (Robert); his cherished grandchildren Gabe, Bella, Ava, Camden, Delaney, and Addison; and his sisters Gayleen Butters (Jack) and Tonia Thielman (Craig), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. His legacy lives on through the many people he influenced, mentored, and loved throughout his remarkable life.

Mike will be remembered for his perseverance, his commitment to his profession, his sense of adventure, and the unwavering love he held for his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at the Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Viewing at 9:00am followed by the memorial service at 10:00am.