Tim Skalla

Wm. "Tim" Skalla passed peacefully on December 26, 2025, surrounded by family, following a courageous and clear-eyed journey with cancer. He was 73.
Born and raised in Niles, Michigan, Tim was shaped early by the example of his father, a man he regarded as the standard by which all men should be measured. Raised in a hardworking household, he learned the lasting value of loyalty, effort, fairness, and doing right by others-principles that quietly guided him throughout his life.
He attended St. Mary's School, where lifelong friendships were formed and carried forward through decades of shared stories. He later graduated from Niles Senior High School in 1970, where he played football and wrestled under Coach Ed Weed. The 1970 football team finished 9–0 and ranked third in the state, one of only three undefeated seasons in school history.
After high school, Tim attended Lake Superior State University on a wrestling scholarship. Competing at 167 pounds before finishing his collegiate career at 158, he often recalled those years with humor and fondness-hitchhiking across the country, living simply, bouncing bars, surviving on wild game, pancakes, and smelt, and learning firsthand what it meant to rely on grit, friendship, and resilience.
While living in Henderson, Kentucky, Tim met the love of his life, Candace Skalla. They were married on July 1, 1978 sharing a long and devoted marriage marked by loyalty, humor, and an enduring partnership. Candace was the steady center of their family-the one who carried the household, stood beside him through every season of life, and remained his constant source of strength, support, and care. Together they raised two children, Stephanie Skalla and William Skalla, providing a stable and loving home where needs were met, lessons were taught by example, and memories were made without excess.
Tim was a coach-not only in sports, but in life. He coached youth baseball, junior high wrestling, and high school wrestling. He believed deeply in fairness, standing up for others, and treating everyone with respect until proven otherwise.
Volunteering was never a phase for Tim-it was simply part of who he was. From church projects and cemetery restoration to food drives, community service, and Knights of Columbus events, he gave his time freely and without expectation. He considered himself fortunate and blessed, believing that wealth was measured not by possessions, but by purpose and service.
Fishing was among Tim's greatest joys, especially the countless hours spent with his son-from bluegill ponds to Lake Michigan salmon runs. He never chased trends or technology, instead trusting patience, observation, and experience. Those quiet mornings and long conversations remain among life's richest gifts.
He is survived by his wife, Candace Skalla, whose devotion and strength were central to his life; his children, Stephanie Skalla (Bob Stepien) and William (Jenny) Skalla; his granddaughters, Macy Skalla and Kylie (Landon) Grwinski; his sister, Martha Skalla-Compton; extended family; and a wide circle of friends whose lives are better for having known him.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tim's memory to Christian Service Center at 322 Clay Street, Niles, Michigan 49120, Friends of Silverbrook Cemetery at P.O. Box 215 Niles, Michigan 49120 or Esther House Center for Hospice Care at 22579 Old US 20 East, Elkhart, Indiana 46516.
A time of visitation will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Brown Funeral Home in Niles from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with Recitation of The Rosary at 6:30 p.m. A Memorial Mass to celebrate the life of Tim Skalla will be celebrated on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Niles, followed by a committal service at Calvary Cemetery.
Memories of Tim may be shared with his family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.
He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, volunteer, and friend-and above all, a good man.