Joseph Philip Mihelich, age 96, a longtime resident of Enumclaw, Washington passed away Thursday, January 12, 2012 at the Life Care Center of Mount Vernon, in Mount Vernon, Washington. He was born July 22, 1915 in Oak Creek, Colorado to John and Mary (Mismas) Mihelich.
Joseph grew up in Enumclaw, graduating from Enumclaw High School in 1933. On June 9, 1945, he was married to Wilma Erickson in Enumclaw.
He worked as a bookkeeper for Weyerhauser, and in 1955 he began his 50 year golfing career as a PGA Professional, operating the Enumclaw Golf Course until February of 1975. Joseph also co-owned and built the Riverside Golf Course in Chehalis.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 67 years, Wilma Mihelich of Burlington. Two sons, Paul Mihelich of Montesano, Phil Mihelich and his wife Marilyn of Clear Lake and a daughter, Karen Kriewald and her husband Rick of Arlington. Four grandchildren, Lara Kammereck and her husband Andreas, Matthew Mihelich and his wife Tristin, Krista Kriewald, and Kasey Kriewald and his wife Kate. Three step-grandchildren, Carrie, Connie, and Michelle. Five great-grandchildren, Davis, Maren, and Emmett Mihelich and Karl and Elsa Kammereck. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother John, and two sisters, Ann and Mary.
Private Family Inurnment Services will be held at the Enumclaw Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.