W.A. "Mick" Michaelis, Jr.
January 19, 1924 ~ October 12, 2020
W.A. “Mick” Michaelis Jr. , passed away on October 12th, 2020, in Wichita, Kansas with his loving family surrounding him. Mick was born on January 19th, 1924, in Russell, Kansas to Walter and Lydia Michaelis.
He graduated from Russell High School and continued on to attend Kansas University before joining the Navy Air Corp. He spent 2 1/2 years in the service. On January 16th, 1945, Mick received his Navy Commission, became an Officer and a Gentleman, and was married that day to Peggy Roberts, also from Russell.
After his time in the Navy they moved back to Russell, Kansas where he started working as a rough neck in the oil field. He worked his way up to Drilling Superintendent and finally President of Trans Era Oil.
In 1954, Mick and Peggy moved to Wichita, Kansas where he continued working in the oil and gas industry. Mick had an opportunity to become a partner with Bill Graham, and Graham-Michaelis Drilling Company was formed.
In 1965, he purchased Sierra Petroleum Company. Sierra owned oil and gas interests, several grain storage facilities, and Stockyards National Bank, which eventually became Emprise Bank.
In 1999, Mick sold all of his oil and gas interests but continued purchasing commercial real estate, leading to the formation of WAM Capital Corp.
He was a devout Christian and lived his life quietly devoted to God. In the business community, he was known as a man of honesty and integrity, and his word was his bond. In the words of Billy Graham, “The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.” This is the legacy that Mick left behind to his family.
Mick is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Peggy Michaelis, and brother, Herbert Michaelis.
He is survived by Mary Frances, his loving wife of 28 years, son Mike (Dee) Michaelis, daughter Sue Michaelis, grandchildren Matt (Nancy) Michaelis, Amy (Chris) Madsen, Laura (Sebastian Bachmann) Haunschild. Mick also had nine great-grandchildren: Mallory, Isabella, Walter, Mick, Karl, Margaret, Markus, Henry and Morgan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in his name to The Navigators, P.O. Box 6709, Albert Lea, MN 56007.
Visitation will be from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Friday, October 16, 2020, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Viewing at Downing and Lahey East Mortuary Saturday, October 17th, 2020 and Sunday, October 18th, 2020.
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I knew Mick through Wichita Bible Church when I lived in Wichita during the 70’s. He was such a humble man.
God bless you Mary Frances and entire family – I was a caregiver for Mick for about a year 1/2. Enjoyed his wit and sense of humor and he was a kind soul. He would definitely let you know he was still independent even when he was not feeling his usual self.. I just found out today Friday 10/16 about his passing. My condolences are to all of you. I met most of you since knowing Mick and Mary.. I especially remember one short trip on 4th of July, just the 3 of us going past Andover to watch fireworks and then back into the city by Mark Arts parking lot and watching fhe fireworks from WCC. God continue blessing all of you and hold fast to the wonderful memories. The video was awesome! Barbara C Jones
Wonderful family video and tribute to Mick’s life and all of you. We have Russell growing up Michaelis family memories. Russell people know how to live their Faith and live with integrity and pull their family close. He was a great example. He lived a long wonderful life. Bless you all Lana Tittel Charles formerly from Russell
Fair winds and following seas sailor. “Boatswain… Standby to pipe the side… Shipmate’s going Ashore…” Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S. Navy, WWII.
My memories of Mick go way back to when he was married to Peggy. Peggy was a first cousin to my dad Harold Nelson, my name is Janelle Nelson Stanley. Mick was always kind, generous and so smart. When Peggy was ill he took such good care of her. One thing I do remember is I always thought he looked like Robert Mitchum. My parents spoke of his wife, Mary Frances as a wonderful wife for him. Mick, you had a loving long life with two great loves! your entire family will miss you so.
It was my privilege to work for Mr. Michaelis on his oil and gas interests for the last ten years that he owned them. He was a prince of a man as an employer. My deepest sympathy to Mary Frances, Mike and Sue, and their families. Helen Nicoli
Mike and Family: I was sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. May he Rest In Peace. A Job well done. Not many men can instill the work ethic, etegrity and hard work onto the sons and grandsons. By doing so he has passed that legacy onto you and Matt. Charlie Reeves
My dad, Bob Widick, worked for Mick for 37 years. He stood by Dad through good times and bad. Dad still speaks of Mick with the upmost respect. Thank you for all you did for us……