Obituary of Arnold Clair Mickelson

Arnold Clair Mickelson
February 25, 1927 – May 14, 2025

Arnold Clair Mickelson, loved father, grandfather, great-grandfather passed away at home peacefully on May 14, 2025, at the age of 98.

Born on February 25, 1927, in St. James, Minnesota, Arnie was the son of Carsten and Irene Mickelson. He grew up alongside his brother Ole and sisters Ellen and Ruth, all of whom preceded him in death.

A proud veteran, Arnie served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following his service, he graduated from St. James High School and later from the Dunwoody Institute. 

In 1949, Arnie married the love of his life, Joy (Miller) Mickelson. They shared 62 wonderful years together before her passing. Together they raised three children—Irene, Jeff, and Joel—and built a life filled with love, dedication, and service.

Arnie was a longtime resident of Cottage Grove, MN, where he worked for many years as a Tool & Die maker at Honeywell. He was deeply committed to his community, serving as a Cottage Grove volunteer firefighter and dedicating countless hours to civic and church life. A faithful member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, Arnie’s kindness, friendship, and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents Carsten and Irene, siblings Ole, Ellen, and Ruth, his beloved wife Joy, sons Jeff and Joel, and son-in-law Jerome.

Arnie is survived by his daughter Irene, daughters-in-law Lori and Carol, as well as many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A service celebrating Arnie’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Cottage Grove, MN, with a luncheon to follow.