On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Steven “Steve” Douglas Mikles, 62, was lovingly surrounded by family and friends as multitudes of Angels welcomed him into his Heavenly home. Steve’s beloved childhood buddies, Lassie (a loyal and protective German Shepherd) and Louie (a gentle but mischievous chimpanzee) were surely the very first to greet him. He passed away unexpectedly at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center in Salisbury from a brief illness.

Steve was born on Thursday, August 10, 1961 in Welch, West Virginia to Joy Seigler Mikles and the late Arthur Mikles. Several years of his childhood, he lived in New Jersey before moving to Fort Mill, South Carolina. He enjoyed his time in West Virginia with his maternal grandparents. Steve learned much about life from his grandfather. There’s no doubt that they all cherished their time together. His caring nature enabled him to help take care of his grandparents through their illnesses. He truly demonstrated acts of selfless devotion by declining a military scholarship in order to take care of his grandfather.

Academics were the focus of Steve’s elementary age and teenage years. He had the ability to remember details and odd facts about various subjects. Classmates nicknamed him “Woodsy”, after Woodsy the Owl, because he was very smart. Stories he’s told also indicate that then he was also in tune with nature and at a very young age, he cared about animals and the environment.

He was a graduate of Fort Mill High School in South Carolina. Steve excelled as a tennis athlete by being recognized as MVP of his high school tennis team. He attended Gaston College. He was a graduate of York Technical College in South Carolina, where he earned a degree in auto body repair.

Steve’s extraordinary skills at pocket billiards earned him a moniker of “pool shark”. He also enjoyed playing cards, cooking,
watching classic tv shows and movies, and traveling to the beach and the mountains. Other interests included classic/muscle cars, coins, and baseball cards.

When he first met Donna, he described her “like an angel” from the sunlight illuminating her hair and face, which made her blue eyes sparkle. Steve and Donna were married at 4pm on Saturday, November 18, 2000 at Victorian Gardens Wedding Chapel in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

His faith and creed were the cornerstones of his life, guiding his actions and relationships. Steve dedicated his life to helping others, whether it was another person or an animal. His generous and kind nature was seen by many throughout all stages of his life. Steve was humble and just wanted to do all the good he could within his capability. He truly had a heart of gold.

Steve was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He also contributed to his community as a member of the Rockwell Lions Club. Several years, he served as Tail Twister, of which duties are to promote a fun and interesting meeting atmosphere. He was also vice president, assistant Tail Twister, and chairperson for several committees throughout his membership. Steve received several certificates and awards for his service in Lionism. He assisted with numerous service projects and fundraisers. Being part of helping the VIPs (visually-impaired people) at the yearly cookout/golf tournaments was an event he enjoyed.

His employment consisted of various positions, but he particularly enjoyed driving/route sales. Steve especially was successful with restaurant management. He was happiest meeting people and ensuring a positive experience for all. Steve thrived when learning and experiencing new things, of which he had the opportunity with insurance sales. During this time, a dear friend cordially nicknamed him “the Senator” due to the dress code being suits and ties. His insurance profile photo was taken in an office beside the American flag. Even with the diverse opportunities he experienced, his most recent employment with Dan Nicholas Park operating the train and carousel was the most rewarding. He said seeing all the children and families making memories was so heartwarming. Being a part of providing a safe and enjoyable experience for them was top priority.

Steve was a devoted, loving husband and the most amazing CatDad. He was a cherished son, treasured brother, adored uncle, and loyal friend. His unwavering love and spirited nature full of life sparked Donna to affectionately nickname him as “My Evergreen Steve”.

He was passionate about animals and felt responsible for their care. Steve was concerned about all the animals in shelters without homes. Animals of all kinds seem to know he was kind and would not harm them. As construction in the area increased, animals started seeking Steve out. He saw numerous orphans, of which were skunks, raccoons, opossums, and other wildlife. He fed them and later on the mothers would bring their babies to meet him. An albino skunk that they named Snowflake became attached to Steve, always wanting him to pick her up and hold her. Another nickname became “the critter whisperer”.

Steve was precided in death by his father, Arthur Roy Mikles, and his paternal grandparents, Charles and Eunice Mikles, and his maternal grandparents, Douglas and Virginia Seigler.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 23 years, Donna Stirewalt Mikles, Hermione (beloved 15 year-old Manx feline furbaby), sister Laura “Lori” Denise Mikles, brother Arthur “Scott” (Kim) Mikles, brother Robert “Robbie” Shannon Mikles, sister Kristen “Kristy” Joy Mikles, mother Joy Seigler Mikles, and 5 nieces, 3 nephews, 7 great-nieces,and 3 great-nephews, and many dear family and friends, including his “Get Along Gang/Shirt Tails“ woodland critters.

A service of remembrance will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2070 Emanuel Church Road, Rockwell, NC 28138 with The Reverend Bruce C. Sheeks officiating. Immediately following the service, everyone is welcome to gather at Happy’s Farm, 985 Parks Road, Salisbury, NC 28146 for a meal and fellowship to continue the Celebration of Steve’s Life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (or go online at stjude.org) or donate supplies/foster/adopt at your local animal shelters.

To our dearest Steve,
You’ll be forever in our hearts.
Your life was truly a blessing.
Your memory will always be an everlasting
treasure .
You’ll always be Donna’s Evergreen Steve.

Carolina Cremation is assisting the Mikles family. Online condolences may be made at
www.carolinacremation.com.