Walter "Mickey" Kaminski, 86, of Nisswa, passed away peacefully in his favorite chair on December 1, 2025.

Born on October 5, 1939, in Minneapolis to Walter and Anna (Pearson) Kaminski, Mickey grew up with a strong sense of family and loyalty — qualities that carried him throughout his life.

On August 8, 1959, he married his high school sweetheart, Pat. During their honeymoon, they discovered Brainerd, a place they instantly knew felt like home. They relocated in 1972 to Brainerd, planting roots and raising their family in the community they both loved.

Mickey was an entrepreneur through and through. He and Pat owned the Smoke Shoppe and Book Nook before opening Mickey's Pizza & Subs in 1982 on 9th and Washington. The shop quickly became a local favorite — known not only for its food, but for the way Mickey welcomed everyone who walked through the door with a warm smile and his entertaining jokes. Community involvement was woven into everything Mickey did. He believed in giving back, supporting local businesses and activities, and helping shape the area he cared so deeply about.

He enjoyed many wonderful years at his cabin on Bass Lake and home on Gull Lake. His devotion to his family was unmatched, a testament to the depth of his love and character.

Mickey is survived by his wife of 66 years, Pat; four daughters: Toni (Jim) Czeczok, Teri (Rob) Gray, Tedi (Jon) Stoe, and Traci Bance; eight grandchildren: Christian (Krystin), P.J. (Jessica), Zach (Andrea), Jack (Darcy), Grace, Coby, Noah, and Maria; seven great-grandchildren: Carter, Emmy, Bradley, Abigail, Halle, Harrison, and Mack; and his sisters: Corky, Ginger, and Mary. He is also cherished and remembered by many extended family members, lifelong friends, dedicated employees and the loyal customers who made Mickey's an enduring community hub.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings Geri, Kenny, and Jack.

Mickey's legacy is one of love, hard work, and community spirit. He will be remembered for the life he built, the people he touched, and the family he cherished above all else.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests you cherish and love your family, and live life to the fullest as Mickey did.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, from 4:00–7:00 PM at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at Nelson-Doran Funeral Home on Saturday, December 6, at 11:00 AM, family and friends are invited to gather for one hour prior to the service and a luncheon to follow.