Gary was born May 28, 1952 to Raymond and Marjorie Briggs Mikkelsen in Creston, IA. He graduated from Creston High School in 1972 and entered the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He served from 1972 – 1975. After returning home he entered Southwestern Community College and graduated on the Deans list for Auto Body. His life long career was painting cars.

Gary married Barb Mikkelsen on September 23, 1977 with whom they had two children, Cassandra Rae and Ashley Anne. His children became his entire life after a tragic accident in May 2005 left him a paraplegic. Gary resided with Cassie the past two years. Gary loved the outdoors, treasure hunting, fishing, camping, boating, motorcycling and rock & roll. He left this life peacefully to join his beloved family in heaven.

He is survived by his children, Cassandra Mikkelsen of Indianola, Ashley Mikkelsen of Des Moines, Andy Konkler of Creston; brother, Tim Mikkelsen of Grimes; sisters, Jane Wimmer of Des Moines, Terri Miller of Palmer, AK, Heidi Reimer of Afton, and Lori Mikkelsen of Ames. Memorials may be designated to the family in his name.