ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The City of Ishpeming announced on Friday afternoon that City Council Member Stuart “Stu” Skauge has passed away.
Skauge served the community for 33 years as a public school teacher, a member of the Michigan Education Association, where he served as the President, and Chief Negotiator for his bargaining unit in the Marquette Area Public Schools for over 25 years. Skauge would later go on to be the MEA UniServ Director in Marquette and Alger Counties for 10 years before his retirement.
He also served as a Sergeant (E-5) in the Korean War. He was a lifetime member and former commander of the Ishpeming VFW Post #4573, and was very active in participating and planning Memorial Day Services, and the VFW Buddy Poppy Program.
Skauge spent many years on the City Council, and was a notable part of projects such as the work done on Malton Road, the Lake Bancroft Pavilion construction, and the Ishpeming Senior Center construction.
City officials released the following statements:
- “It is a sad day for the City of Ishpeming, we have lost a kind and active person that I will never forget!! Fly high councilman Skauge.” – Council Member Pat Scanlon
- “Stu was a brother-in-arms, supervisor and friend who will be greatly missed. His constant support to the veterans and devotion to this town will leave a void like no other.” – City Manager Craig Cugini
- “My sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Stu Skauge. I, along with so many others have had the honor of calling Stu a mentor and friend. Stu embodied what it means to serve others; he is a veteran and lifetime member and leader of the VFW, an educator, a leader and inductee into the U.P. Labor Hall of Fame, and as a City Council member here in Ishpeming for many decades. He always put the needs of others before his and I am honored to have been able to serve on the City Council with my mentor and friend. My heart breaks for his kids whom he was so proud of, and for all of his family.” – Mayor Jason Chapman
- “Stu will be greatly missed by so many. He always gave so much to the City of Ishpeming, as well as so many other organizations. My condolences go out to all of his family and friends.” – Assistant to the City Manager Cathy Smith
To read the full release from the City of Ishpeming, click here.