Jan M. Mika Jr

Albany, NY-On December 24, 2025, Jan Michael Mika, Jr., age 48, passed away suddenly in Delmar, New York. Jan was the beloved husband of Stehle Hetman-Mika, who was his greatest champion and loved him beyond measure, and the devoted father of Ryan C. Mika and Peyton M. Mika, the center of his world. Jan was the loving son of Linda Ruth Mika and Jan M. Mika, Sr. He is also survived by his aunts Patricia Ruth and Janet Gargiulo; his uncles Jack Ruth and family, and Stanley Mika and family; and his in-laws Mary and Michael Hetman, as well as his brother-in-law Michael Hetman. Born and raised in Albany, New York, Jan attended St. Catherine of Siena School, Christian Brothers Academy, and graduated from The College of Saint Rose with a degree in Criminal Justice. He proudly served as a member of the Albany Police Department, a role he took seriously and carried with honor. Jan loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was deeply devoted to his children and took great joy in every moment spent with them—whether cheering as a hockey and baseball dad alongside his best friend and sidekick, Ryan, or proudly coaching Peyton in softball and jiu-jitsu. He adored his children and could never do enough for them. Above all, Jan’s family was his greatest pride, and the love he shared with his wife was the foundation of his life. Jan was truly one of a kind—the life of the party, a larger-than-life personality with a heart to match. He had more friends than one could count and was deeply loved by all who knew him. To those fortunate enough to truly know Jan, he was undeniably special. Special thanks are extended to his lifelong friends Jimmy Severino, Jeremy McCann, Marc Kent, Sean Mahar, and Jeremy McCloskey, and to the many others whose friendships and kindnesses meant so much to him. The family also wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Joel Caldwell, Greg Whitney, Willie Flack, and all of Jan’s fellow law-enforcement friends who always had his back. You are a remarkable group of men and women. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jan’s family Tuesday, December 30, 2025 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell Street (Rev. Kenneth J. Doyle Way) Albany, NY 12208. Jan’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, December 31, 2025 with full Departmental Honors at 9:30 am at the Parish of Mater Christi, Albany, NY. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com Those wishing to honor Jan’s memory may consider making a contribution to the USA Hockey Foundation, 1775 Bob Johnson Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, or another charity meaningful to the family.

Tributes

Jan M. Mika Jr

November 21, 1977 - December 24, 2025