Passages: Michigan Mourning Death of Swimmer Ian Miskelley

Photo Courtesy: Dan D'Addona

University of Michigan swimmer, and former Michigan high school state champion, Ian Miskelley died unexpectedly on Monday. He was 19.

“The University of Michigan swimming and diving program is deeply saddened to report that men’s swimmer Ian Miskelley passed away on Monday,” Michigan swimming released in a statement. “This tragic news is utterly devastating to our team. Our condolences go out to the Miskelley family during this incredibly difficult time.”

In high school, in Holland, Michigan, and in his first experience with a high school team, led Holland Christian to the state championship in 2018, becoming an individual state champion himself. He won the 100-yard backstroke, 200 individual medley and was part of two state-title-winning relays.

He was a USA junior national medalist and qualified for U.S. nationals in 2017, swimming for the Michigan Lakeshore Aquatics club. He was a current member of the University of Michigan men’s swim team and was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree.

“Ian embraced the hard work in our sport. He thrived on it. He appreciated the notion that you get what you give in swimming. His personality was always to outwork you, and we loved him for it,” MLA coach Jim Whitehead said. “Over the past few days, we have been overwhelmed hearing so many people in the swimming community affected by his passing. So many of us miss him dearly.”

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept.12, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152^nd Ave, in Holland, Michigan.

Visitation for Ian Miskelley will be 3-6:30 p.m., Friday, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16^th St., (Due to road construction please enter on Fairbanks Ave.), visitation will also be 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday at Our Lady of the Lake prior to the funeral mass. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Ian Miskelley Memorial Fund C/O the Holland/Zeeland Community Foundation, 85 E. 8^th St., Suite 110, Holland MI 49423.

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Felix Gonzalez

3 years ago

Charles Todd McClune

Paula Maas

3 years ago

Our hearts go out to the Miskelley family. Ian was not only a great swimmer and friend to my sons, but he also contributed so much to the community. He was fun and kind, energetic and adventurous, with a huge heart. Ian gave everything his all, more than anyone could have asked. Now he’s swimming in the stars! Love and miss you Ian! ❤️

Steve Miskelley

3 years ago

Reply to Paula Maas

Thank you for the kind words Paula. Ian truly loves your family.

Thank you as well Dan. This is extraordinarily difficult for us. Your support of Ian throughout his career was always appreciated.

Elle Couture

3 years ago

So very sad, God Bless

Amy Liberi Palmer

3 years ago

???

Kirsten Segal

3 years ago

Your whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. Although we never met in person, I am sure we sat in some hot pool stands at the same time. Swimmers and their families are really special and your loss hurts us all. Please know that your swim family is always there for you.