James Alton Mikkelsen was born in Santa Rosa, CA. He moved to Turlock in 1951, and served for the National Guard for 6 years during the Vietnam era. In 1962 he met his loving wife Marlene and raised their only son Robert Mikkelsen.  James worked for JS West Milling as chief engineer for 40 years. He is survived by his wife Marlene; son Robert; mother May Mikkelsen; brother & sister in law Carl, Georgia-Marlene Mikkelsen; niece Allison & nephew Andrew. James is preceded in death by his father Glen Mikkelsen & sister, Janet. A visitation will be held on Friday, April 22, 2016 from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Turlock Funeral Home 425 N. Soderquist Rd. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 10:00 am at Turlock Memorial Park Mausoleum. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Emmanuel Cancer Center 880 E. Tuolumne Rd. Turlock, CA.