In Memoriam: Ernest A. Mika
Ernest A. Mika, one of the founders of Mika Meyers Beckett & Jones and former president of the Grand Rapids Bar Association, passed away on June 3 at the age of 85.
He is survived by his wife, Lucy Henry; eight children, four stepchildren, 34 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Mika helped grow the business at Mika Meyers Beckett & Jones, recruiting attorneys and managing the firm while practicing business and energy-related law for nearly 50 years.
He gave of himself unselfishly, throughout his life, to family, friends and community. His numerous awards included the Donald R. Worsfold Distinguished Service Award from the Grand Rapids Bar Association (which he served as president), the Thomas More Award from the Catholic Lawyers Association of West Michigan, induction in the Grand Rapids Catholic Central Hall of Fame, and the Parent Award from Michigan State University.
Mika was trustee and secretary of the Foster Welfare Foundation, chairman of the Grand Rapids Foundation, director of the Michigan Oil and Gas Association, president of the University Club of Grand Rapids, and trustee of the University of Michigan Board of Control of Intercollegiate Athletics, as well as president of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Men; he was active in many Catholic organizations, including Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.
In 1999, Mika suffered a severe stroke while playing tennis and was rendered unable to speak and partially paralyzed. Despite these afflictions, he kept a positive attitude and continued to live life to the fullest and accept what was handed to him. His motto was “Life is for the living,” and he showed it with the energy he put into daily life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to Holy Cross Mission Center, P.O. Box 543, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556 in memory of Rev. Robert T. Hesse's mission in Uganda; or to “St. Cecilia Marilyn Eardley Mika Music Library,” 24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
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