Elmer Forrest Mikkelson

Elmer Mikkelson Obituary

Elmer Forrest Mikkelson died at Pikes Peak Hospice on September 26th at 8:17 a.m. He was born in National City, California. While attending Sweetwater High School he went to work for the U.S. Forest Service, fighting forest fires. He resided in Chula Vista, California which was known as the lemon capital of the world in those days. Before enlisting in the U.S. Navy, he obtained his birth certificate and found that the doctor listed him as a female. While in the Navy, he was assigned to the USS Pruitt, the USS Laning and the USS Tarawa. After which he went to City College in 1948 he started working for his father in the rubbish disposal business, which his father started in 1928 in Chula Vista, California. After buying his father out in 1978, he continued operating the business until 1986, making a total of 37 years in the business. During those years he invested in real estate in San Diego County. After his father's death in 1990, he and Sally started traveling, looking for a place to move and found beautiful Colorado Springs. He was a member of Rotary since 1978 and belonged to the North Colorado Rotary Club since 1992. He has volunteered at Penrose Main Hospital for 14 years. He was also a member of ARGONAUTS Club and helped charter the Pikes Peak Rollers Motor Home Club. Motor home traveling was a favorite past-time for about 20 years. During 13 years of that time, his constant companion was his little Yorkie, Sfuzzi, who was his shadow. Elmer once owned a 1926 Dodge business sedan with his friend, Stan Schneider. He has a daughter, now living in the state of Washington and two sons of San Diego County. Also a sister, Phyllis of Chula Vista. Elmer thrived on helping others and volunteering his time. There will be no celebration of Elmer's life at this time. Arrangements pending.

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Published by The Gazette on Sep. 29, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Elmer Mikkelson

10 Entries

Jocelyn Myers

October 9, 2009

I will forever remember Elmer with having a sweet smile and warm heart. He used to come into my coffee shop off Baptist road and get a small cup of coffee and a banana nut muffin atleast once a week, while I worked there. He was a huge encouragement to me right before I left to go to nursing school in Iowa. I was able to get a job at a healthcare facility down south in CO, and to my suprise, Elmer was one of my residents. His smile and warm heart brightened my day. It was very hard for me emotionally to seperate my feelings for him from an old friend to then, his nurse. He will be dearly missed. My condolances to his family, and please give my condolances to your mother. I wish I had been able to say goodbye to her as well!

Phyllis Wilson

October 4, 2009

A part of my life's history is now gone with my brother's passing. I have no one to discuss and argue over childhood events, family members and past celebrations. I will miss and remember him always. Sister Phyllis

Linda Fant

October 4, 2009

I am forever grateful for the many wonderful memories I have of my Uncle Elmer while growing up. What a gift to be able to have spent time with him during his visit in San Diego this year and for him to be able to meet my grandchildren. He will be missed by many.

David, daughter Kathy with Elmer 9/08

October 1, 2009

Elmer loved Pikes Peak - That is where his ashes will be spread.

October 1, 2009

David Smith

October 1, 2009

After I got out of the Navy and was attending College I would work for Elmer in the summer times and at Christmas. I will never forget one day being in the office and a phone call came in that one of the trash trucks had tipped over. These were very big trucks and it was a big deal to tip them over and an even bigger deal to try and get them upright. I couldn't believe how calm Elmer was that a trash truck have tipped over! He checked to make sure no one had been hurt then set about calling his mechanic and a VERY large crain to upright the truck then took off to watch. He was a good man and a great father-in-law.

Mark Mikkelson

September 30, 2009

Dear Dad,
I love you and will miss you very much.

Dona Bryant

September 30, 2009

He was truly a joy to serve with in Rotary. Bless you Elmer.

September 29, 2009

He was the best dad ever, to me (his daughter, Kathy) and his two sons, Mark and Rick. Our lives were made better by his love and devotion while we were growing up. He also had a great friendship with his son-in-law, David.

Kathy & David Smith
Fox Island, WA

Darlene & Scott Allen

September 29, 2009

God's speed Elmer - you gave truly Service above Self!

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