SHAWN SKAGER

Shawn Skager Award-winning journalist Shawn Skager, 47, died unexpectedly Aug. 18, 2016, leaving behind a treasure trove of family and friends who all miss him dearly. He is survived by his wife Theresa and children Conner and Hannah Skager of Tacoma, daughter Katy Bleazard of Utah and his mother Shirley Skager of Federal Way. He was preceded in death by his father John and sister Farah. Growing up, Skager moved around every three years or so because his father was in the U.S. Navy, living in Australia, Greece, California and Utah. He spent most of his adult life in Tacoma, but also loved spending time with family in North Dakota. He found his calling in journalism when he became sports editor of The Puyallup Herald in 2000. He'd go on to work at the Enumclaw Courier-Herald, the Auburn Reporter and was editor of the fledgling Sumner Reporter, repeatedly winning multiple awards. He was even a finalist for sports reporter of the year. Skager worked with the Northwest Music Scene and found his way onto a radio show at NWCZradio.com, where he went on to co-create the "Hooligan Honky Radio Hour" and "We Ugly Stay Humble." In lieu of donations or flowers, hug your loved ones and listen to a Rush or Iron Maiden song of your choice. A memorial video is located at http://bit.ly/shawnskager