It is with heavy hearts, and with much love and gratitude for his life, that we announce the passing of our father, Joseph Thomas Mikita.
Although born in a barn in Pitt Meadows (as he liked to tell everyone willing to listen) his heart was always partially in Slovakia. His parents had emigrated from Podbiel with his older and much-loved sister, Adela, a couple years earlier. Joe's childhood was filled with independence and adventure, first in Queensborough and then New Westminster city. In his high school years, the family moved to the Kootenays, where his parents owned and ran hotels, first in Nelson and later in New Denver. While only in his mid-teens, Joe became the official translator, bookkeeper, and keg-tapper for the Newmarket Hotel. After a stint working in the mines of Sandon (where he miraculously survived a cave in), Joe returned to the Lower Mainland. There he met and fell in love with Margaret Klimek. Her parents had also emigrated from the same region of Slovakia before she was born, so they had much in common, including a language that the kids couldn't understand. To provide for his growing family, Joe joined the Vancouver Police Department in 1960, eventually rising to the rank of sergeant and heading up the Forensic Identification department. In his 'spare' time, he built houses, sometimes with his father, including the family home and an apartment building that still stands in New Westminster. His vacation time was spent introducing Marg and their four children to the wilds of BC. Joe loved the outdoors, which led him and his brothers-in-law to build a cabin on Green Lake together, and later to own a boat to explore the BC coast. He and Marg enjoyed his retirement years travelling around the US and Canada in their trailer, often accompanied by friends and family. The happy couple celebrated 51 years together before Marg passed away in 2006. Joe's later years were occupied by travel adventures with Katie Turner, time with family, and occasional casino visits. He relished returning to 'his roots', living alongside the Fraser River in New Westminster. A stroke slowed him down in 2014, but his indomitable spirit and zest for life continued, albeit with a little help from others. His last few months were spent in Langley Village care home, where he enjoyed the company of his friends in the residence, as he reminisced about his life, sang Slovak folk songs, and sometimes quoted Shakespeare.
Joe is predeceased by his wife, Marg, parents Joe and Teresa, and sister Adela. He is survived by his 4 children and their spouses: Jeanne (Cam), Kathy (Glen), Terry, and Joe (Heidie), and 12 grandkids who he loved to tease and tell tall tales about his life.
Because of current provincial health restrictions, we will be holding a small family service to remember Joe. He will be laid to rest beside Marg, his parents and sister in Gardens of Gethsemani in Surrey, B.C.
Thanks for the memories, Dad. You continue to be an inspiration to all of us. Love you forever.
The journey continues...