Linda L. Mickelson

selfless, [ self-lis ], adjective

concerned more with the needs and wishes of others more than ones own; unselfish

Linda (Carlson) Mickelson, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully on June 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.  Her journey began on November 16th, 1950, when she was born to Kenneth and Clarice Carlson.  Linda, along wither her parents and two brothers, spent countless hours, making treasured memories, at the family cabin on Island Lake.

Linda graduated from Memorial High School in 1968 where she formed many lifelong friendships, including with her future husband, Dave (Mick). You could say Linda “fell head over heels” on their first date at the Pines Ballroom in Bloomer.  Being shy of 18, Dave’s friends needed to help sneak her in through a bathroom window; the first of many adventures.

David and Linda were united in marriage on November 6, 1971.  They were blessed with 2 amazing sons, Matt and Jack, who brought her immense pride and joy.  Matt and Jack gave her the greatest gifts, five grandchildren that she cherished and adored.

Linda earned a degree in Early Childhood Education at UW-Stout, pursuing her passion for nurturing young minds.  She began her career as a preschool teacher, a role perfectly matched for her caring and patient nature.  Her path naturally led her to the hospitality industry, where she joined Larson Companies. Her job titles included, Director of Sales, General Manager, and Director of Operations where she oversaw more than 20 hotel properties in Wisconsin and Minnesota.  She spent years working with the Convention and Visitors Bureau in a variety of capacities leading her to be named Board Chair on the Executive Committee.

Even after her official retirement, Linda continued to share her vast knowledge and experience, as a consultant, in design and development.  She continued to make significant contributions to the industry she loved.  Her leadership and expertise in this field were widely recognized and valued.  For 73 years, she also served as the Director of Operations for the Mickelson/Carlson families, managing responsibilities with dedication and grace.

Linda found tremendous happiness spending summers on the pontoon in Chetek and winters in The Villages, surrounded by her extended family and a multitude of friends.  She always had a bag of snacks and could put a “quick meal” together at any time of the day or night. Her life was a testament to her passions and dedication. Linda was a giver.  Her love of shopping was always about finding the perfect gifts for those she loved and creating opportunities to bring joy to others.  Her generosity was limitless.

Linda leaves behind a legacy of love, benevolence, and commitment. She will be dearly missed by her fun-loving husband Dave, caring sons Matt (Jaclyn), Jack (Nicole), wonderful grandchildren, Lexi (Steve), Emma (Cole), Katie, Lilly, and Scarlett. She is also survived by her brothers Richard Carlson, Don (Carol) Carlson, sister-in-law Jeanne (Harvey) Storm, and Tim (Maryanne) Mickelson.  She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.  She was joyfully reunited with her parents, stepmother (Evelyn), sister-in-law/shopping partner (Mary Carlson), and brother-in-law Tom Mickelson. Her memory will be forever cherished by her family, friends, and all those lives she touched.

A private celebration will be held at a later date.   

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

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