Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Jerry Skaga
1950 - 2025
BORN
1950
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
8503 State Route 16 NW
Gig Harbor, Washington
UPCOMING SERVICE
Jerry Skaga Obituary
Jerry was born on December 28, 1950, in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Cleveland High School in Portland ('69) and went on to graduate from Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), earning degrees in business ('72) and education ('73). At PLU, he met his wife of almost 50 years, Janine Galbraith. They married on December 20, 1975.
Jerry resided in Gig Harbor, Washington, for over 50 years, building a home, nurturing a family, establishing a real estate business, and engaging in the community. He also taught fourth-grade at Salter's Point Elementary School in Steilacoom, Washington, for 30 years until his retirement in 2003. His students remember him as a teacher who made learning enjoyable. Jerry's curious spirit extended to his hobbies as well. He was a passionate gardener, an avid reader, a fishing enthusiast, a skier, a tennis and golf player, and a passionate boater. His love for traveling was contagious, sweeping up his family and friends in adventures across the globe. He will be remembered as a loving husband, dedicated dad, adventurous traveler, reliable friend, accomplished businessman, and an engaging teacher.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Janine Skaga, his cherished daughters, Joelle Skaga Nausin (Tim Nausin) and Jana Skaga (Brett Shearer) and his grandchildren, Clara, Karsten, Lucy and Langley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Karsten and Hazel Skaga.
We invite you to share your memories and photos of Jerry on his memorial page. Let us celebrate Jerry Skaga, a life truly well-lived.
Jerry's life will be remembered at St. Mark's Lutheran Church by The Narrows on Friday, December 5th at 11 a.m. Please join us for a celebration in the parish commons following the service.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating in his honor to Pacific Lutheran University or St. Mark's Lutheran Church by The Narrows.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Jerry Skaga
Funeral services provided by:
Haven of Rest Funeral Home, Cemetery, Crematory - Gig Harbor8503 State Route 16 NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Skaga
Sponsored by Haven of Rest Funeral Home, Cemetery, Crematory - Gig Harbor.
4 Entries
Shove Family
Yesterday
Our family has many, many fun memories of Jerry! When we heard of Jerry's passing we were all so sad and sorry. Jerry was a great guy and will be sorely missed by so many, he died far too young. Our daughter, Kari and son, Ryan spent countless hours with Jerry in their youth. Kari had so many great times, she especially loved all the Summer boat trips out of Anacortes! Ryan worked with Jerry on the "rentals" and got the biggest kick out of Jerry's "paint colors" he personally mixed( Skaga brown, Skaga tan, Skaga gray! He loved Jerry's 74 Vega wagon and was so surprised the Christmas we gave him "The Vega" because Jerry broke down and sold it to us, Ryan's 1st car! Steve so enjoyed all the YMCA Indian Princess Adventures at Camp Seymour. Mike Stork would take all the Dad's to The Float in Purdy for darts. Somebody had to stay back with the girls, Jerry often volunteer so he could read. It was so fun when Jerry & Steve were my assistant coaches for the girls' 5th grade Basketball Team. They would both tell me this or that(you know men), I knew girls so didn't listen... We won the Championship and every single girl scored that season! So many wonderful memories of Jerry that will live on in our hearts, he will live on as we share more & more special times! Our thoughts and love go out to the entire Skaga family!
Betty Perry
November 19, 2025
I raise my glass to you my dear friend- a toast to a full life filled with fine wine, plenty of fish, world travel and lots of love from and for friends and family. You will be missed but always remembered with smiles as we clink our glasses.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Jerry Skaga's name
How to support Jerry's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Jerry Skaga's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
