Steve Mikesell

Stephen “Steve” Mikesell, 53, of Valrico, Florida passed away on Saturday,19 February 2022. He is survived by his wife, Maria (Alvarez) Mikesell of Valrico, Florida, his children, Alexa Irene (Timothy) Hoffmeister and grandson Timothy (Trey) Hoffmeister III of Brandon, Florida, Phoebe Lynn Mikesell of Clearwater, Florida, Derek R. Thompson of Riverview, Florida, his mother JoAnn C. Mikesell of Smyrna, Tennessee, his sisters Debbie (David) Adams of Middletown, Ohio and Victoria (Richard) Smether of Smyrna, Tennessee his brother Russel “Rusty” (Jennifer) Mikesell Jr. of Middletown, Ohio, many loving nieces and nephews, and his faithful companion, his dog Pricilla who walked his last two miles with him. He is preceded in death by his father, Russel L. Mikesell Sr. of Middletown, Ohio.

Steve was born in Middletown, Ohio and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1988 where he served as a Personnel Journeyman until 1997. Steve continued his lifetime of service with the Department of Defense by accepting a civilian position as a Casualty Assistance Officer at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. In that role, Steve served with distinction helping thousands of military families during times of crisis, confusion and struggle. In a career that spanned over 30 years, Steve showed an unparalleled level of expertise, compassion and commitment to family members as he ensured they received necessary benefits and entitlements. Steve’s sensitivity to each family was always genuine, and always appreciated as he worked tirelessly to ease their burdens during times of grief. Steve earned numerous military and civilian distinctions during his career including Air Force Achievement, Air Force Commendation, National Defense and Humanitarian Service Medals.

Steve’s love of people extended to his team of friends at both Amalie Arena and the MidFlorida Amphitheater where he worked for years providing hospitality to the thousands of fans who enjoyed the many events.

While his family was always his greatest love. Steve had a passion for playing golf and enjoying professional sports in “Champa Bay”. He loved the Bucs, the Lightning and the Rays, attending games in person or watching from his backyard oasis. But most notably, he loved his Ohio State Buckeyes, and never strayed from his devotion to his home state teams. Steve always stayed true to his roots.

When Steve had downtime, he loved being “Papa” to his grandson Trey, and the hours they spent playing in the pool were cherished moments. Steve also loved traveling. Whether it was to his favorite beach on Anna Maria Island or cruising the Mediterranean on a dream vacation with the love of his life wife Maria. Steve savored every moment, and his good humor, gentle demeanor and fierce family devotion will be greatly missed.

A gathering of family & friends for Steve will be held Sunday, February 27, 2022 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. A funeral service will occur Sunday, February 27, 2022 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511. A celebration of life will occur Sunday, February 27, 2022 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

The family wishes to thank Steve’s "honorary sister", Sonia Moore, his "honorary sister-in-law", Dora Mays and the staff and caregivers at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital for their care and compassion.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HillsboroMemorial.com for the Mikesell family.