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Donald L. Skoog, age 81, of Lindstrom passed away January 6, 2010.

Don was born on October 24, 1924 in Eureka, Wisconsin, the son of Harry and Ruth Skoog. He worked on the family farm through his early years, and was a graduate of St. Croix Falls High School. He joined the Navy in 1952, and was a radar operator on an air patrol squadron during the tail end of the Korean War flying reconnaissance along the China coast, and based in Adak, Alaska and Honolulu. After leaving the Navy, he continued his career in the airline industry, working as an avionics mechanic for North Central, Republic, Northwest, and Sun Country, and has flown to many airports all over the world. Sun Country flew troops to various locations, and some of Don's memorable moments were flying as part of the crew with the troops to Kuwait during Desert Storm, which earned him a medal from the US Air Force. Don was instrumental in forming the Lakes Area Recreation Association for young athletes, became their first president, and coached football, hockey and baseball for LARA. He was an avid outdoorsman, and especially enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Don is survived by his wife, Janice, children Robert (Nicola) Skoog of Garrison, MN, Bradley (Kristin) Skoog of Lindstrom, and Ann (Michael) Miller of Lindstrom; grandchildren: Abby, Kelly, Courtney, Tony and Mikayla; sisters: Angeline Bender of Grand Rapids, MN, Irene Campbell of St. Croix Falls, WI, and brother Leslie (Delores) Skoog of Eveleth, MN; and many nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Alice Gustafson and Clarice Lindahl.

Funeral services were January 9, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chisago City, Reverend Mike Peterson officiating. Condolences may be made at www.grandstrandfh.com.

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