December 6, 1936 – March 18, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bill Mikita on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Bill leaves to mourn his lovely wife Maitena (Tina) of 62 years, his children: Alenka (Dave), Andre (Theresa), Joli (Cork), his grandchildren: Stephanie (Tarl), Kyle (Chantelle) , Roxanne (Trey), Ty (Robyn), Lindsay, Shaye (Silas), Brandy, great grandchildren: Kieron, Aimeree and Holly. He also leaves to mourn his family in Hungary, his brothers: János (Terézia) and András (Margit) along with many nieces and nephews: András (Ágnes), Tamás (Magdolna), Ágota (Tamás), Andrea (József), Mariann, Attila, many great nieces and nephews and friends.

Bill is predeceased by his father András, his mother Mária and his sister Margit.

Bill was born in Sajóvámos, Hungary in 1936 and immigrated (during the revolution) to Canada in 1957. Bill arrived in Lytton were he worked for CP Rail and met the love of his life, Tina. While living in Lytton, Bill and Tina built a home where they would welcome Alenka and Andre into this world.

In 1966 they moved to Merritt. They lived at the Ranchland Motel until they moved into their forever home. Bill and Tina then gave birth to their third child Joli. Bill worked at Craigmont Mines, Nicola Valley Saw Mill, Aspen Planers, then finished his career at Weyerhaeuser where he was a Millwright/Welder.

Bill was an amazing man with a great sense of humour and a great love for his family, working hard all his life to ensure his family’s needs were met. Bill would do anything for anyone no matter the situation, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Bill loved the outdoors where he would fish, hunt, camp and explore the backcountry. He also had a love of gardening and in his spare time would fix lawn mowers for the people of the community. Bill and Tina would faithfully take Sunday drives to explore the back country where they would enjoy each other’s company. Throughout the years Bill and Tina would take turns taking the grandchildren camping, where fond memories were made.

We would like to thank Dr. McLeod, Dr. Edmonds, Dr. Hodgins and all the nurses and care aides at Coquihalla Gillis house and the hospitals who helped care for Bill over the last few years. Your dedication to your job and the care you provided for Bill is very much appreciated.

There will be no service by request. A small gathering will be held in the summer with family and close friends. Instead of flowers, a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation would be appreciated.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.merrittfuneralchapel.com

• Date : 2023-03-18
• Location : Merritt