Today heaven opened its gates and welcomed an amazing man, husband, father, and Papa. Rodney Duane Mikel was born on May 30, 1934, in Westville, IL, and passed away on February 4, 2026. He taught us right from wrong, how to enjoy nature, and was always supportive of us living our own lives. He would have celebrated 71 years of marriage with Pamela Mikel in March. A devout Catholic, Notre Dame and Lou Holtz fan, veteran, avid hunter and golfer, public servant as a Master Sergeant of the Illinois State Police, he was always willing to donate to a good cause…whether it be the bag boy at the local grocery store, food pantries, St. Jude’s, or his church. He will be greatly missed but is no longer in pain or confused.
He is survived by his wife, Pamela Mikel; son, Matthew D. Mikel (Vicki) of El Paso, IL; daughter, Melisa Mikel-Norwich of St. Johns, FL; one granddaughter, Gabriela Mikel-Norwich of St. Johns, FL; and one brother, Kenneth Mikel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Wanetta Mikel of Westville; and a sister, Delores Jean Czapski.
Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial: Family will receive friends from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield, followed by the Mass at 11:00 a.m., with Fr. Zach Samples, celebrant. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.
