Daniel Charles (“Dan”) Mikkelson, a man of profound faith, devoted family patriarch, and accomplished aeronautical engineer, passed away peacefully, at the age of 87, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Minnesota, Dan spent his life looking upward—both in his spiritual devotion and his brilliant career exploring the frontiers of aviation.

Dan was a man of deep, unwavering faith, which guided every aspect of his life. His integrity, kindness, humility, and analytical mind left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Above all, he was a cornerstone for his family. Dan was the deeply faithful husband to his beloved wife, Arlene (Endrud), for 62 beautiful years, creating a legacy of enduring love, commitment, and partnership. On their very first date, he took Arlene flying—undoubtedly leaving a lasting impression that would span more than six decades.

A brilliant mind, Dan dedicated 35 years as an aeronautical engineer with NASA Lewis Research Center, in Cleveland, OH, specializing in advanced turboprop technology and contributing to some of humankind’s greatest eras of flight exploration. His passion for engineering didn't stop there. After a brief retirement, he went back to work for another 20+ years, bringing his expertise to Locust/Pegasus Engineering, in Juno Beach, FL, where he helped lead & inspire colleagues and government officials, with whom they contracted. Dan possessed a tireless work ethic and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, starting every morning by reading two newspapers. He was intentional about sharing articles, valuable insights, and investment tips with family members and colleagues alike.

Dan’s greatest pride, however, remained his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving and supportive father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He gave his family a brilliant blueprint of what it means to lead selflessly, with a servant's heart, a curious mind, and an unconditional, Christ-like love.

He is survived by his wife Arlene, of Palm City, FL; his brother, Vance Mikkelson and his wife Alice of New Mexico; his two children, Mayda Winiarski and her husband Chip Winiarski of Naperville, IL, and Matt Mikkelson of Stuart, FL; his eight cherished grandchildren, Luke Hawthorne (wife, Cat), Brynne Doty (husband, Cam), Claire Winiarski, Faith Mikkelson, Lilly Luker (husband, Ben), Nathan Mikkelson, Naomi Winiarski, and Ben Winiarski; his great-grandchild, Haven Mikkelson; and a host of extended family, friends, and former colleagues, all of whom will forever carry his memory forward. Dan is reunited in heaven with his parents, Earl and Katherine Mikkelson, as well as his sister, Earlynne Meister.

Memories and condolences for the family may be made at www.foresthillspalmcityflorida.com