SKOOG, Michael

Michael Wayne Skoog April 16, 1950 – December 30, 2024 Michael Wayne Skoog passed away suddenly at the Chinook Regional Hospital on December 30, 2024. He was born on April 16, 1950 in Edmonton, Alberta, to Fritz Florian and Marta Lisa (Ella) Skoog. He had one sister, Audrey Leona.
On July 16, 1977, he married the love of his life, Valerie Jean Hirsche, in Lethbridge, Alberta. Together, they had three sons: Adam Michael, Jason John, and Lance Nyal Skoog.
Mike loved his family deeply, and each grandchild was a highlight in his life. He eagerly anticipated their births, cherishing every moment spent holding and playing with them. Later he enjoyed showing them magic tricks, and taking them on motorbike rides. He was a devoted father and grandfather who took great joy in watching his sons grow into accomplished men with various talents. He taught them to be hard working, while encouraging them to have fun and create special memories with their families, ultimately becoming loving fathers to their children.He loved to travel to his families homes enjoying his grandchildren, each child wonderful and unique.
Mike is mourned by his wife, Valerie; his three sons and their spouses; and his six grandchildren. Adam (Pamalyn Charles) Riley, Madison, and Clayton; Jason (Amber Draper) Ty and Alora; Lance (Alyssa Knelsen) and Raya. He leaves to mourn his mother-in-law, Jean Lucille (Shaffer) Hirsche; sister-in-laws, Maria Michelson and Randa L’Hirondelle and numerous nieces and nephews in the Hirsche and Graveland families. He was predeceased by his parents, Fritz and Marta Lisa (Ella) Skoog; his sister, Audrey (David Graveland); his father-in-law, John Roy Hirsche; brothers-in-law Nyal Hirsche, Gary Michelson, and Russell L’Hirondelle; nieces and nephews, Wanda, Travis, and Justin Hirsche, and Ryan Michelson. Mike loved playing baseball, dancing, playing music on the piano, guitar, and harmonica. He enjoyed magic tricks, camping with family and friends, riding motorbikes, hunting, building and repairing bikes, farming, crafting knives, and travelling. He cherished spending time with family, lifelong friends, neighbours, and many acquaintances. He was a friend to all and was loved by many. Throughout his life, Mike faced numerous health challenges, bravely battling various ailments. He cherished his life and wanted to witness his family and grandchildren’s accomplishments, but eventually grew tired and yearned to reunite with loved ones who had passed on. We are certain he will look down upon us, taking joy in our lives. We love him and will never forget him. Michael was a special person who touched the lives of many. He lived a full and enjoyable life and will be greatly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
Please join us for his viewing Friday January 3, 2025 at Salmon & Sons Funeral Home (433 Stubb Ross Rd, Lethbridge AB) from 7:00 – 8:00pm; and Funeral January 4, 2025 at Stirling LDS Chapel (413 3 St. Stirling AB) at 1:00pm. The cemetery service afterwards will be private.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, if people wish to donate to the Lethbridge Food Bank, Warner Cemetery, HALO or any charity of your choice.
To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca