Vay Lynn Mickelson

Vay Lynn Mickelson, 69, returned to his Heavenly Father on January 8, 2026, after a life defined by devotion, quiet service, and unwavering love.

Born June 5, 1956, in Soda Springs, Caribou County, Idaho, to Franklin Michael Mickelson and Louise Speirs, his childhood was spent in Lago, Idaho, where he learned the value of hard work and humility on the family farm.

In 1968, Vay’s family moved to Mesquite, Nevada—a change that would shape the rest of his life. It was there he met his eternal sweetheart, Verde Marie Hughes. The two were married on September 14, 1974, and later sealed for time and all eternity in the Manti Utah Temple on September 13, 1975. Together they built a loving home in Bunkerville, Nevada, where they raised their six children and became deeply rooted in the community they cherished.

In 1993, Vay fulfilled a lifelong dream when he joined the Clark County Fire Department, eventually working with the Heavy Rescue unit. His dedication, courage, and compassion led him to advance to Paramedic Engineer, where he served with distinction. After 25 years of protecting and lifting others, he retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, bravery, and brotherhood.

Vay’s hands were rarely still. He found joy in soaring above the desert in his powered parachute or creating music and woodworking. Yet his greatest creations were the countless acts of quiet, unseen service he offered to neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. He lived the gospel of Jesus Christ not in words, but in the way he lifted burdens without seeking recognition.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie, and their six children; Andrew (Megan), Mandi (Bruce) Miles, Erin (Jared) Eames, Gregory (Melanie), Kelli (Nathan) Jones, and Alexis Love; twenty-six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his father Michael, his mother Louise, his stepmother Colleen, and his brother Russell.

Funeral services will be held at the Mesquite LDS Stake Center, located at 100 North Arrowhead Lane, Mesquite NV 89027, on Saturday, January 24, at 11:00 a.m.

A visitation will take place Friday, January 23, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., and again Saturday morning from 9:00–10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Bunkerville Cemetery on Diagonal Street.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Critical Care Unit at Sunrise Hospital and to Clark County Fire Department for their professional, tender, and compassionate care during Vay’s final days.

The Service may be viewed via the zoom link here: https://zoom.us/j/94779739532