Walter J. “Walt” Skaj, age 72, of Wellston, passed away Tuesday, October 30, 2018, at his home. He was born August 26, 1946 in Aitkin, Minnesota, son of the late Joseph J. Skaj and Martha Knoll Skaj.
Walt retired from Big Lots Warehouse in Columbus, where he was employed as a maintenance man. Walt was definitely a family man. He enjoyed being around his family, especially watching his grandbabies play ball. He also enjoyed fishing and listening to polka music. Walt was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Wellston. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joanne Craft Skaj; children, Jennifer K. Skaj of Commercial Point, Sheila R. Skaj of Cloquet, Minnesota, Ted Johnston (Stephanie) of Wellston, Jamie Johnston (Mendy) of Wellston, Lori Hovila of Superior, Wisconsin, Mary Juntunen of Kalispell, Montana, Mike Hovila of Kalispell, Montana, and Susan Anderson of Superior, Wisconsin; sister, Betty Buttler (Jim) of Aitkin, Minnesota; brother, Paul Skaj (Janie) of Aitkin, Minnesota; grandchildren, Josh, T.J., Andrew, Drew, Kenzie, Brittany, Jenna, Sarah, Cory, Jesse, Nicholas, Amanda, Hayley, and Matthew; along with several great-grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends. Besides his parents, Walt was preceded in death by his brother, John Skaj; and his niece, Michelle Buttler.
Calling hours will be Friday from 4 to 8 P.M. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston, where rosary service will be held at 8 P.M. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday at 11 A.M. at the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Wellston with Father Nic Ventura officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem Cemetery. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com