Rhonda Maria Mika

Born during the hardships of World War II, Rhonda survived the Dutch Hunger Winter as a young child—an early testament to the resilience and strength that would define her life. She came from a family that had known prosperity before the war, making those early years a profound contrast between comfort and hardship, shaping her enduring character.

In 1959, Rhonda came to the United States with her parents and siblings in search of greater opportunity, a journey that marked the beginning of her life in the country she would later proudly serve.

Rhonda proudly served in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class (E-3) and was honorably discharged in December 1964. During her time in service, she was affectionately known as “Dutchess,” a nickname inspired by her Dutch heritage and her youthful charm. She later became a United States citizen, a reflection of her deep commitment to the country she chose to call home.

In September of 1964, Rhonda met the love of her life, Lieutenant Colonel Francis “Frank” Mika, USAF (Ret.), and just two months later, on November 28, 1964, they were married—a partnership that would span continents and decades.

As both a veteran and a devoted military wife, Rhonda understood the demands of military life and embraced a life of travel and change with strength and determination. Their journey took them across the United States and overseas, including assignments in Germany at Ramstein Air Base and involvement with NATO operations in Europe. Through it all, she sought to create a home for her family, navigating life’s ups and downs with resilience. Following Francis’ retirement from the Air Force, they eventually settled in Williamsburg, Virginia, where they spent their retirement years together.

Rhonda was a devoted mother to Brian Francis Mika and Erica Angelina Mika, and her family was the center of her world.

Rhonda was feisty, funny, and full of life. She had a strong voice and wasn’t afraid to use it, bringing energy, humor, and honesty into every room she entered. She spoke her mind, stood her ground, and loved deeply—her personality as vibrant as her devotion to those she cared about.

She was also a voracious reader with a deep appreciation for art, music, and culture. A talented painter and a lover of poetry, she found joy in creativity and expression. She had a love for music that spanned from the timeless melodies of ABBA to classical works and even a touch of rock. She especially loved Christmas, embracing the season with warmth, beauty, and joy each year.

Rhonda had a striking sense of style and carried herself with elegance and confidence. She was always impeccably put together, with a natural beauty that was impossible to ignore. When she walked into a room, people noticed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lieutenant Colonel Francis “Frank” Mika, USAF (Ret.); her son, Brian Francis Mika; and her sisters, Angelina Reynders and Monica Reynders.

She is survived by her daughter, Erica Angelina Mika, and her husband, Matthew Scott; her brother, Robert Reynders, and his wife, Carol Reynders.

Rhonda will be remembered for her strength, her spirit, her humor, and her service—both to her family and to her country.

A private funeral service was held with full military honors, including a rifle volley and the playing of Taps. She was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery alongside her beloved husband, where she was reunited with him in rest. In recognition of her service, the American flag was presented to her daughter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rhonda’s memory to Catholic Charities USA, a cause reflecting her belief in caring for those in need and supporting the most vulnerable.