Vivian Mikkelsen

Vivian (Ganes) Mikkelsen (Muzinich-Posehn) Lifelong resident of Pierce County, WA, peacefully passed away February 19, 2014, in Gig Harbor at age 84. Vi's life was a rare mix of many virtues. She was raised in a time that required sacrifice and hard work. From this early experience a strong work ethic and an attitude of self sufficiency was established. When she became a wife and mother she was the consummate "home economist", budgeting household expenses to the last penny, often stretching those pennies by sewing clothes for her kids, which they wore with pride! When the time came for her to work, she bravely jumped in without hesitation. Her determination, discipline, and detail oriented intelligence, gained her the position of Vice President of Computer Programming at a major financial institution, a career which spanned over three decades. She lived thru untimely deaths of friends and loved ones and the challenges and obstacles of everyday life. With her strongly developed sense of compassion and open mindedness, her life became an ever expanding circle of charity and unconditional love. At the center of this circle was her undying devotion to her family. She kept family reunions ongoing for many years and purposely built a home large enough to facilitate all of the annual holiday family gatherings. She was a staunch believer in God and held close to her heart the basic tenets of Christianity, while at the same time recognizing there were many pathways that led to the experience of God's presence. Her life was a reflection of this faith and understanding. In later years Vi suffered from several illnesses always managing to put her "game face" on for family gatherings which were always filled with love and laughter. She will be so missed by her family and those who cared for her and loved her. She was certain, though, as are we all, that she has left her suffering behind and is now in a place of happiness and joy. Her charities included: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Tacoma Breast Cancer Center (volunteer work for many years), Tacoma War Memorial (assisted in comprising memorial name list), ASPCA, Tacoma Rescue Mission, Chapel at Echo Bay, Founding member of Sherry Thomas Orthopedic Guild associated with Mary Bridge Children's Hospital. She is survived by husband Herb Posehn, sister Florence Sand, children Becky Mikkelsen Harris and Steven Mikkelsen along with their spouses Bob and Julie, 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and numerous loving cousins, nieces, and nephews. A Celebration of Life, including a light meal, will be held on Saturday, March 15th, 2014, from 1pm to 4pm at the Pierce County Environmental Services Building located at 9850 64th Street West, University Place, WA 98467. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.