Introduction
Noel J. Mickelson, an American artist, equestrian, and environmentalist, gained prominence as the first wife of actor John Amos. Their interracial marriage in 1965, during a period when such unions were illegal in several U.S. states, highlighted their commitment to challenging societal norms. Beyond her marriage, Mickelson was known for her artistic talents and advocacy for environmental causes.
Early Life and Education
Born in Estherville, Iowa, Noel J. Mickelson was of Ashkenazi Jewish descent from Eastern Europe. She attended Colorado State University, where she met John Amos. During their college years, Mickelson was majoring in fine arts, and Amos was studying sociology. Their shared passion for the arts and social issues laid the foundation for their future endeavors.
Meeting John Amos
In the early 1960s, while attending Colorado State University, Mickelson and Amos met and quickly developed a deep connection. Despite the societal challenges of the time, including the fact that interracial marriages were illegal in 16 U.S. states, they decided to marry. Their relationship was a testament to their shared values and mutual respect.
Marriage and Family
In 1965, Mickelson and Amos married, becoming one of the few interracial couples in the United States to do so legally at that time. They had two children: Shannon Amos, born in 1966, and K.C. Amos, born in 1970. The family lived in New Jersey before relocating to Los Angeles, where Amos began his acting career. Mickelson supported her husband’s ambitions while pursuing her own artistic and equestrian interests.
Career and Artistic Pursuits
Mickelson was a skilled artist and equestrian. She was known for her craftsmanship and dedication to her art. Her passion for horses led her to become an accomplished equestrian, participating in various competitions and events. Additionally, Mickelson was an advocate for environmental causes, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural resources.
Challenges and Divorce
Despite their strong bond, Mickelson and Amos faced significant challenges due to societal prejudices. Their interracial marriage was met with discrimination and legal obstacles. In 1975, after a decade together, they decided to divorce. The reasons for their separation were personal and not publicly disclosed. Following the divorce, Mickelson continued her artistic pursuits and maintained a low profile.
Later Life and Health Complications
After her divorce from Amos, Mickelson remarried a Disney special-effects engineer. The couple lived on a California ranch, where Mickelson experienced severe health complications during a hysterectomy. These complications led to her becoming blind and quadriplegic. Despite these challenges, Mickelson remained active in her artistic endeavors and continued to advocate for environmental causes.
Death and Legacy
Mickelson passed away in December 2016, surrounded by her family. Her daughter, Shannon Amos, honored her memory by fulfilling her mother’s wish to travel the world. Shannon took her mother’s ashes on a journey to various countries, sharing the experience with her followers on social media. Mickelson’s legacy lives on through her children, who have pursued careers in the entertainment industry, and through her contributions to art and environmental advocacy.
Conclusion
Noel J. Mickelson’s life was marked by her artistic talents, dedication to equestrianism, and commitment to environmental causes. Her marriage to John Amos, though brief, was significant in challenging societal norms of the time. Despite facing personal and health challenges, Mickelson remained a steadfast advocate for the arts and the environment. Her legacy continues through her children and the impact she had on those who knew her.
