Donald "Don" R. Skalka

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald “Don” R. Skalka on June 29th, 

2024, at the age of 81. 

Born December 6, 1942, in Deweese, Nebraska, Don was a proud graduate of Nelson High 

School. He later went on to study drafting at the Milford Trade School Following graduation 

in the summer of 1964, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served honorably 

until 1968 and achieved the rank of Sergeant. As a skilled pilot, he had the opportunity to fly 

and work with a variety of aircraft during and after his military service. 

Possessing an adventurous spirit, Don explored a diverse range of interests throughout his 

life. From carpentry and prospecting to scuba diving and the unexpected, he was a man of 

insatiable curiosity and creativity. He would often venture across the United States, pursuing 

his passions and embracing the open road. 

One of his many claims to fame was when he was hauling boulders for his landscaping 

business. After making a sharp turn, he unknowingly dropped one in the middle of the street 

and made local news. Those that knew him best would describe him a lot like that boulder. 

Rough around the edges but a solid man. 

Don is survived by his sister, Jeanene (Skalka) Anders and her husband Bruce, and his 

nieces and nephews, Brandi (Skalka) Herold and her husband Dan, Thomas “T.J.” Skalka and 

his wife Jodi, Megan (Anders) Reininger and her husband Mark, Brent Anders and his wife 

Alicia and great-nieces and nephews, Ethan, Logan, Lukas, Thomas, Ian, Kyria, and Hannah. 

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy (Mazour) and Richard Skalka, and his 

brothers, Robert and Lee. 

Services will be held at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church in Deweese on Friday, 

August 2nd at 11:00 AM. Military Rites and luncheon to follow. Memorial donations may be 

made to the Our Lady of Assumption Church Altar Society. 

Murray Wilson Funeral Directing is in charge of the arrangements.