Emil John Mikity

Emil John Mikity, known to all as “Mick,” was born in Gloversville, New York, and passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, at the age of 98 at Kendal at Longwood in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.

Mick lived a full and accomplished life. He will be remembered for his devotion to family, keen intellect, strong work ethic, lifelong commitment to health and fitness, and deep appreciation for music, theater, and the arts, especially jazz.

Mick earned a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree from Pratt Institute and an MBA from New York University. He enjoyed a distinguished career in financial analysis and investment management, specializing in the chemical industry. Throughout his career, he held positions at American Cyanamid, McGraw Hill, New York Securities, Laird, Bissell & Meeds, Abraham & Son, Lehman Brothers Kuhn Loeb, and Pennwalt Corporation, where he retired as Senior Vice President of Investments and Investor Relations. He also served on the boards of Viking Funds, CoreFunds, and the Delaware Nature Society.

Mick met his beloved wife, Phyllis Ann Mikity, in San Francisco, California, in 1959. They later moved to New York City, where they began their family, before settling in Wilmington, Delaware. Together, they built a life grounded in love, partnership, and devotion to family, sharing 66 years of marriage and raising four children. They took great joy in supporting their children’s and granddaughter’s interests and celebrating all their accomplishments throughout their lives. Mick also enjoyed bringing home tickets to Philadelphia Phillies and Flyers games, creating lasting family memories while sharing his enthusiasm for Philadelphia sports.

Above all his professional achievements, Mick’s greatest pride was his family, and his devotion to Phyllis remained unwavering throughout their life together. He took great pride in being a husband, father, and provider, always striving to support and encourage those he loved.

Mick and Phyllis shared a love of travel and adventure, frequently participating in tours offered by Ashland Nature Center. Among their favorite destinations were Costa Rica, New Zealand, Alaska, Belize, and Cuba. Their travels allowed them to explore new places together, experience different cultures, and deepen their appreciation for nature and the world around them.

Mick had a lifelong passion for music, particularly jazz, and cherished attending live performances. He made an annual tradition of attending the Newport and Monterey Jazz Festivals and enjoyed concerts at The Grand Opera House in Wilmington. Music remained a constant source of joy throughout his life.

An avid and voracious reader, Mick valued the importance of libraries and supported their role in the community. He enjoyed borrowing books from the library and keeping up with current events through The News Journal and The New York Times. His intellectual curiosity and love of learning remained enduring parts of his life.

Equally important to Mick was his commitment to health and fitness. He maintained an active lifestyle and was often found exercising at the Wilmington YMCA, running, or working out. His discipline and dedication to staying fit reflected the determination and strong work ethic that defined him.

Mick is survived by his children, Charles Victor Mikity, Janette Kay Mikity, and John Michael Mikity, and his granddaughter, Maya Mikity. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Phyllis; his son, Marc; his brother, Robert; and his parents, Emil and Mary.

Mick will be remembered for his sharp mind, discipline, love of music, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering dedication to those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the professional accomplishments he achieved, and the example he set through a life marked by purpose, perseverance, and devotion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at: Kendal at Longwood 1109 East Baltimore Pike Kennett Square, PA 19348.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Ashland Nature Center 3511 Barley Mill Road Hockessin, DE 19707 Donations may also be made online through the Delaware Nature Society: https://delawarenaturesociety.org/get-involved/donate/.