William Mitko

Born on April 14, 1937, in Alpena, Michigan, he was the son of Joseph and Pauline Mytko.

William started working as a lumberjack at age 14 in the forests of the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan. He then joined the Army at age 17 and served in Europe. After serving in the Army, William joined the Air National Guard in Alpena, Michigan, and served on active duty until his retirement on March 31, 1997. William enjoyed many activities, including hunting, fishing, softball, golf, bowling, woodworking, and riding snowmobiles and motorcycles. He loved Jesus Christ and was active in the local Free Methodist church in Alpena, Michigan, and later in the Free Methodist Church at the Light and Life Park in Lakeland, Florida. William and his wife, Barbara, moved to Oro Valley, Arizona, in 2015 and became active at the Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene.

William, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather is survived by his wife of 66 years, Barbara; brothers John and Harry; his children Jody (spouse Jon Hawbaker), Tonya (spouse Murray Hicks), and William Jr. (spouse Aki); his grandchildren Nicolaus, Nathan, Jacob, Cory, Jeremy, Elena, Megan, Jady, Sarah, and Noah; and 15 great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his sister, Clara, and brother, Joey. William will always be remembered for his witty sense of humor and smile.

Details of a celebration of William’s life will be forthcoming.

Funeral Home: Vistoso Funeral Home, 2285 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd, Oro Valley, Arizona (520) 544-2285