Kenneth E. Mikes
Kenneth Edward Mikes, 90, of Parkersburg, passed away on September 23, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by family. He was born January 22, 1936, in Paden City, WV, the son of the late John E. and Mona Flanagan Mikes.
From a young age, Kenny was full of life and curiosity, with a wide range of interests. Growing up with humble beginnings, he worked hard to help his family make ends meet. Those early traits shaped the man he became—joyful, hardworking, and devoted to those he loved. Nothing brought him greater happiness than his family.
Kenny was an exceptional athlete. He earned All-State honors in football, basketball, and baseball during both his junior and senior years at Sistersville High School. He led his high school to state championships in football and basketball, was named Mr. Basketball in West Virginia, and was scouted as a professional baseball pitcher. His greatest love, however, was football. Highly recruited by major universities, he ultimately chose Purdue University. He later played in the college All-Star game following graduation.
After college, Kenny served in the United States Army Reserves achieving the rank of Captain before beginning a distinguished career in Industrial Relations. His strong moral values, genuine care for people, and natural ability to earn trust made him perfectly suited for the field. He began his career with Ormet in Hannibal, OH, then accepted a position with Kaiser Aluminum in Belpre, OH. He later transferred to the Kaiser Aluminum Plant in Ravenswood, WV, plant and completed his career at the Ravenswood location.
Kenny and his family made their home in Parkersburg, specifically the Cedar Grove community. Living on Marie Street surrounded by nature and wonderful neighbors was a blessing to them. His favorite place was the screened in porch, where he and Marilyn spent countless hours enjoying fresh air and watching the wildlife that visited daily. Kenny had many interests, especially those that took him outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, with a particular passion for fishing. He cherished trips to Lake Murray, SC, and for nearly 30 consecutive years traveled to Canada for annual musky fishing trips—landing two that exceeded 50 pounds. His hobbies also included taxidermy, woodworking, gardening, traveling, and watching Purdue sports. Above all, Kenny loved his family. Spending time with them and finding ways to help was always his greatest priority.
Most importantly, Kenny knew Jesus. He attended church throughout his life and was a faithful member of Christ United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. He counted his blessings daily, gave thanks, and lived his faith through his actions. His family finds peace knowing he is with Jesus now.
Kenny is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Marilyn Rexroad Mikes; two sons, Craig Mikes (Mary) of Bowling Green, OH, and Mark Mikes (Marsha) of Aiken, SC; five grandchildren, Keith Mikes of Portersville, PA; Erin Olejniczak of Holland, OH; Todd Mikes of Perrysburg, OH; Kaitlyn Mikes of Edwards, CO; and Andrea Mikes of Denver, CO; and five great-grandchildren, Addison, Tenley, Tessa, Austin and Nolan. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Smittle of Murrell’s Inlet, SC.
In addition to his parents, Kenny was preceded in death by his brother, James Mikes, and sister, Betty Roberts.
Funeral services will be held Monday at 1 PM at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Reverends Randy Flanagan and Shauna Hyde officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens. Visitation will be Sunday from 2–5 PM and 6–8 PM, and one hour prior to the service.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com.
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