Mihkel Kase (Fr 1988)
1969-2025

The Principal, Council and St Andrew’s College community honour the life and legacy of Mihkel Erik “Mik” Kase (Fr 1988), who passed away on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, aged 56, following a courageous two-year battle with brain cancer.

Born in Sydney to Tõnis and Tiina, Mik grew up with his brother Martin. He attended Oakhill College, Castle Hill, where he distinguished himself as a spirited and versatile sportsman, competing in First XV rugby, basketball, volleyball, squash, and swimming. His school principal described him as a refined and lively young man whose personal integrity was reflected in his concern for others. 

Mik joined the St Andrew’s community in 1988 as a second-year student at the University of Sydney. At St Andrew’s, Mik continued to play rugby with distinction as a high-jumping second rower in the fresher and “anti-socials” teams. Mik was a unifying presence in College life - many remember his infectious joie de vivre and his enthusiastic belly laughs regularly reverberating throughout the corridors of Thynne. Mik cherished his years at College and the enduring, lifelong friendships he forged.

A graduate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia and with further qualifications in Finance, Mik built a long and successful career as a senior portfolio manager in the investment management industry, working across both the UK and Australia. While Mik’s reputation was initially built in credit, he was also a highly regarded multi-strategy investor and leader in his field. Mik’s strategic insight, clarity of thought, and calm authority made him a valued voice in investment forums and a key contributor to high-level debate. He was a great mentor for emerging talent, a compelling communicator and sought-after speaker. He worked with companies such as Salomon Brothers, BT Financial Group, Principal, Westpac and the global asset and wealth management firm Schroders. Mik brought both intellect and integrity to every professional setting. His leadership was matched by his warmth – he was deeply respected and well-liked by colleagues, clients, and peers alike.

At St Andrew's and throughout his life, Mik showed those around him what it truly means to be the ultimate all-rounder. He lived by his values and upheld his principles with strength and unwavering integrity. He took his responsibilities seriously – whether in his work, his family, or his friendships – but he never took himself too seriously. His humility, loyalty, and sharp wit and humour made him admired and loved by all who knew him.

Mik is survived by his wife Alice and children James and Eliza, his parents Tõnis and Tiina, his brother Martin, and a wide circle of extended family and network of friends and colleagues who mourn his loss.

The Kase family is held warmly in our thoughts. We extend our deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved Mik.

  1988 Whole of College Photo - Mihkel is in the middle of the fifth row. 

Mihkel's student file photo (1988)