Personal Obit

WATSONVILLE -- Longtime NBA superstar and loving family man, Russell Mikols died yesterday, in his sleep, from what his family believes to simply be old age.

Mikols, 84, was well known for his 18 year carrer in the NBA. He played for both the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors over the span of his career-- his two favorite teams growing up. After his playing career Mikols devoted his life to taking care of his family. He loved his wife Sierra and two children (to be named later) more than anything.

As a youth Mikols always dreamed of playing professional basketball. From the moment he could walk, he loved sports. He shared his passion for athletics with both his family and friends. In fact, many of his closest friends to this day were friends he formed as a child.

Before his first year of college, Mikols met the love of his life. She stood by his side as he made the leap to the NBA and conquered every record. The two of them started a family when Mikols was 30 and had two beautiful children. Mikols lived his life happy -- putting the most important thing first -- his family.

Mikols is survived by his loving wife, his sister Rachael, his two children, and five grandchildren in his hometown of Santa Cruz.