Noel J. Mickelson: The Untold Story of John Amos’ First Love

Who is Noel J. Mickelson?

Noel J. Mickelson was more than just John Amos’ first wife. The Iowa-born artist carved out her own remarkable path long before her connection to Hollywood fame. Born in Jackson County, Minnesota, Mickelson was a talented carpenter and passionate equestrian who defied societal expectations of her time.

Noel J. Mickelson’s Groundbreaking Love Story

When Noel met John Amos at Colorado State University, their love was revolutionary. They married in 1965 – two years before the Supreme Court’s landmark decision legalizing interracial marriage. Their daughter Shannon would later share, “As a child I didn’t know my parents were different colors. I only saw them as my parents – the two people who loved me.”

A Partnership Beyond Marriage

The couple’s relationship was deeply supportive. Noel encouraged John’s dreams, standing by him as he transitioned from social work to the entertainment industry. John once recalled, “Being an artist herself, she understood my reluctance to accept the 9-to-5 world.”

Noel J. Mickelson’s Personal Pursuits

Beyond her marriage, Mickelson was a woman of many talents. Her passion for fine arts and carpentry defined her early years. An avid equestrian, she and John raised their children on a property with horses, creating a unique family environment that celebrated creativity and connection.

Challenges and Resilience

In 1975, Noel and John separated. Shannon revealed that her mother experienced a challenging period, including a nervous breakdown. The details of their divorce remained private, a testament to Mickelson’s dignified approach to personal matters.

Life After Divorce

Mickelson’s life took an unexpected turn when she remarried a Disney special-effects engineer. Tragically, medical complications from a hysterectomy left her blind and a quadriplegic. Her second husband cared for her until her passing in 2016.

A Lasting Legacy

Her children, Shannon and K.C. Amos, have continued to honor her memory. Shannon’s heartfelt Instagram post in February 2024 captures their deep bond: “She was my rock, offering a safe space to be with my emotions. I miss the warmth of her embrace so much.”

Noel J. Mickelson’s Impact

More than just John Amos’ first wife, Noel was a trailblazer. Her life story speaks to resilience, creativity, and the power of love that transcends societal boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is John Amos still alive in 2024?

No, John Amos passed away on August 21, 2024, at the age of 84.

Who was John Amos’s first wife?

Noel J. Mickelson was John Amos’s first wife. They married in 1965 and divorced in 1975.

Where is Noel Mickelson now?

Noel Mickelson passed away in 2016 after experiencing significant health challenges.

Was John Amos still married when he died?

No, John Amos was not married at the time of his death.

How many times did John Amos get married? J

ohn Amos was married twice – first to Noel J. Mickelson and then to Lillian Lehman.

Who is John Amos’ daughter?

Shannon Amos is John Amos’s daughter from his first marriage to Noel J. Mickelson.