Peter Mikelis Jr., age 75, passed away on February 4th 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Born on March 1, 1950, in San Antonio, Texas, to Peter Mikelis and Mary Rayma Mikelis, Pete grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. While his father served in the Air Force, he was raised by his grandparents, Athena and Nicholas Mikelis, with whom he shared a deep and influential bond. After graduating from Lakewood High School and a few years of college, he served as a merchant marine. His entrepreneurial spirit took hold when he founded and operated his own leather goods company.

In later years, the family moved to Las Vegas, where he discovered a lifelong passion for mining. This interest led him to become a Metallurgical Engineer, a field he dedicated himself to for over 40 years. In addition to his passion for mining, he also enjoyed playing the guitar later in his life.

As a world traveler, he met and married Maxine Mikelis. Together, they shared a life of adventure, often traveling to explore new horizons. His devotion to his wife Maxine of 28 years to date was undeniable, and his family and friends meant everything to him.

Throughout his life, he remained exceptionally close to his father and his sister, Michele Carpintier. While his professional achievements were many, he was most proud of his son Nicholas, taking immense pride in him and his daughter-in-law, Shannon.

His greatest delight was being a grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with Olivia and Brayden, who will forever remember their grandfather's music, his brilliant mind, and his enduring love for them.

Known for always seeing the bright side of things, he was exceptional and full of charisma. Master of the "one-liner" and could make anyone laugh at any time. His positive nature and presence will be missed more than words can express.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Maxine Mikelis, his son Nicholas Mikelis, daughter-in-law Shannon, and his two cherished grandchildren Olivia and Brayden.

He is also survived by his sister and lifelong confidante Michele Carpintier, his mother-in-law Joyce, his brother-in-law Aubrey, his sister-in-law Patricia, his nieces Yvette, Vanna, and Victoria, his nephew Donnie and a host of extended family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Mary Rayma Mikelis, his aunt Georgia and his grandparents, Nicholas and Athena.

Services will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, 5300 South El Camino Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118. A viewing will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM.

"Live your life to the fullest and love your family and friends." - Peter Mikelis Jr.

"The hardest part about anything in life is starting." - Peter Mikelis Jr.