Warren Richard Mikula

Warren Richard Mikula, 97, a lifelong resident of Traverse City, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Grand Traverse Pavilions. Warren was born on February 20, 1929, in Traverse City to the late Joseph and Meta (Schroeder) Mikula. Growing up, he attended Central Grade School. When the school suffered a fire, he temporarily attended classes at the historic Perry Hannah House in 1934 while the school was being rebuilt. He later graduated from Traverse City Central High School in 1947. During his younger years, Warren developed a love for music and played the trumpet in the high school jazz band. His musical talent continued with the Symphony Orchestra, the Dance Band, and he even spent a summer playing at Interlochen. As a young boy, Warren dreamed of working in radio. Determined to follow that dream, he visited the local radio station and shared his ambitions. He was told that a job would be waiting for him when he returned from school. Warren went on to attend Michigan State University and graduated from the School of Radio Technique in Chicago. He returned to Traverse City where he began his career at WTCM. He married the love of his life, Audrey Jeanice Hillard, on December 29, 1956, and together they raised two wonderful children, Meta and Mark. In 1968, Warren transitioned into television, joining TV 7 & 4. He became a beloved local news anchor for many years and eventually worked his way up to Operations Manager. Warren was known for his distinctive sign-off voice and provided voiceovers for many commercials throughout the region. He was incredibly talented and deeply loved his career in broadcasting. Warren was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and cherished his church family. He especially loved the holidays, a cold Diet Coke, and a Whopper Jr. from Burger King. He enjoyed watching the Detroit Tigers play, but most of all he treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. Warren is survived by his children, Meta Stanchfield and Dr. Mark (Leslie) Mikula; grandchildren, Kaitlin (Daniel) Wehrmeister, Megan (Carl) Stone, Jack Mikula, and Ava Mikula; great-grandchildren, Quentin and Vincent; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Audrey, in 2014, whom he missed every day; his brother, Edward Mikula; his sister, Miriam Howen; and his sister-in-law, Virginia Beldo. Visitation will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 13th, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. Burial will take place next to his wife at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Warren Richard Mikula

February 20, 1929 - March 5, 2026