Gerald Edward Mikota

Gerald “Gerry” Edward Mikota, 80, of Hackensack, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home Friday, June 20, 2025.

Memorial Mass was to be offered Friday, June 27, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 207 Church St., Spillville, with burial to follow in the church cemetery and visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service at the church on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. 

Born Dec. 16, 1944, in Decorah, Gerry was the son of Elmer and Anna (Svestka) Mikota. He was raised on a farm just west of Spillville alongside his parents and brother, Larry. Gerry often joked that he was “top of his class—and the only one in it” at his one-room schoolhouse.

In 1966, Gerry proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a Communications Sergeant and micro radio repairman. He was honorably discharged in 1969 and remained a proud veteran throughout his life.

Gerry married the love of his life, Linda (Rothmeyer), June 27, 1970. Together they raised three sons in Brooklyn Park, MN, where Gerry was a dedicated father—always present on the sidelines coaching sports or out fishing with his boys.

In 2004, Gerry and Linda fulfilled a lifelong dream and moved to their lake home on Baby Lake in Hackensack, MN. There, he enjoyed the serenity of nature, spending time with his family, playing cribbage, and was passionate about golf. He also loved his regular Tuesday visits to Northern Lights Casino for Senior Day.

Gerry was beloved for his quick wit, great sense of humor, and the countless jokes he shared with friends and strangers alike. He never met a person he couldn’t make smile.

He is survived by his three sons: Mark (Amanda) Mikota of Motley, MN; Ryan (Nicole) Mikota of Maple Grove, MN; and Chad (Amanda) Mikota of Backus, MN; and his cherished grandchildren: Elyse, Abbey, Anna, Harper, Kelsey, Geoff, and Natalie. He is also survived by his brother, Larry (Angie) Mikota of Spillville, IA.

Gerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Linda.

Gerry’s life was a legacy of love, laughter, service, and strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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