Joseph "Brian" Mikkelson, 59, of Bristol, passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2019 at his home. Brian was born on February 19, 1960 in Hartford, CT to Andrew and Virginia Mikkelson. Bold, loud, opinionated. Larger than life. There was never any question if Brian was in the room. He grew up in East Hartford where he graduated from East Hartford High School. Then going on to earn his masters degree in social work from the University of Hartford. He also spent much time playing shows and recording with his punk and heavy metal band, The White Pigs, throughout the 1980s. Brian was viciously proud of his children and grandchildren. Never missing an opportunity to brag about their accomplishments, big and small. A contradiction in every measure. Known for his mohawk, extensive tattoos and piercings but also for his conservative political views. A life long musician, New York Giants and Yankees fan. A deeply compassionate social worker by day, an unparalleled master of the curse words by night. To assume you ever had him figured out was foolish. The more of his family and many, many friends you speak to, the more facets of Brian you learn. A truly unique man, Joseph "Brian Ripthroat" Mikkelson, was an everyday rockstar. Brian is survived by his partner, Tracy Franco; children, Daniel Mikkelson, Brittany Mikkelson, David Mikkelson, Mercedes Mikkelson and her Husband Joseph Zappulla, as well as grandchildren, Joey, Aleksandra, Evan, Colin, Angelina and his two dogs, Tyler and Perry. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, October 31, 2019 at 11AM at St. Christophers Church, 538 Brewer St., East Hartford CT. Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home, East Hartford, is handling arrangements.
