LANCASTER—Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Richard Stanley “Dick” Mickel of Lancaster passed away on February 23, 2023 after a three-year battle with pulmonary hypertension.
He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the only child of Richard Stanley Mickel and Virginia Magnus. Following graduation from Cretin-Derham Hall High School in Minneapolis, Dick attended the U.S. Air Force Academy graduating in 1962. During his 22-year career in the Air Force, Dick flew several types of aircraft and his assignments took him to worldwide locations, including his tours in Vietnam and Laos.
Following his retirement from the Air Force in 1984, Dick continued to pursue his piloting career by entering the field of corporate flying, where he continued his worldwide travels. His passion for flying enriched his life and he loved sharing stories of his career adventures.
Following his second retirement, he enjoyed his home on the creek, fishing trips on the river in his boat and playing duplicate bridge.
Dick will lovingly be remembered as a caring father and grandfather and a man of honor who was committed to family, always encouraging them to achieve and reach their potential. He will be fondly remembered for always enjoying a good debate.
Dick was predeceased by his parents.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Ann “Fran” Keeler Mickel; his children, Christine Marie Fadden (Bradley), Sharon Elizabeth Harrer, Richard S. Mickel Jr. (Amber), stepchildren Elizabeth Ann Hutchings (Gerald) and Sharon Jeanne Keefe (Edward); grandchildren, Aaron, Gabrielle and Nicholas Fadden, Max and Zach Harrer, Madison and Maci Mickel; five step-grandchildren, Jessica and Julia Hutchings, Katherine Baker, Margaret Henson (Jonathan) and Jennifer Keefe; and 4 step-great-grandchildren.
A private family funeral service is planned.
Dick will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
Currie Funeral Home LLC of Kilmarnock handled the arrangements.
