Justin Skiba Obituary, Death – Beloved Sevastopol School Teacher and Football Coach Dies at 40

Justin Michael Skiba, 40, of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday morning, October 31, 2026, leaving behind a loving family, former students, colleagues and friends who will deeply miss his kindness, humour and dedication to education.

Born on August 8, 1986, in Neenah, Justin was one of ten children born to David Patrick Skiba Sr. and Wendolyn “Wendy” Elizabeth Skiba. He grew up in Seymour, where he attended Rock Ledge Elementary School before continuing his education at Seymour High School.

During his high school years, Justin participated in football and golf and graduated with the class of 2004. His passion for education and his desire to become a teacher guided his next steps. He attended UW-Fox Valley in Menasha before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 2009.

Football remained an important part of Justin’s life throughout his college years. He continued playing for the semi-professional Green Bay Gladiators, serving as the team’s quarterback from 2007 through 2012.

Justin Skiba’s Career at Sevastopol School

Justin began working at Sevastopol School on August 18, 2009, where he taught third grade and developed a strong connection with students and fellow educators. Teaching was more than a profession to him; it was an opportunity to encourage young people, share knowledge and make a lasting difference in their lives.

His love for football also found a place within the school community. After spending years playing the sport, Justin exchanged his helmet and pads for a whistle and headset, coaching junior varsity football before eventually becoming the school’s varsity head coach.

He coached from 2009 to 2015 and played an important role in the committee that helped Sevastopol transition from traditional 11-man football to eight-man football.

Even when he was not coaching, Justin remained involved in the school’s sporting activities. He could often be found playing quarterback or officiating football games during recess. He was also a regular participant in the annual staff-versus-students football and basketball games, where his competitive spirit remained evident.

His contributions extended beyond athletics. Wisconsin Public Television recognized his collaborative work with six other educators in developing lesson plans for the Wisconsin Hometown Stories Project.

Justin became a much-loved member of the Sevastopol family. Colleagues remembered him as an incredibly kind-hearted teacher who had a special gift for connecting with students and making them feel valued, whether they were in his classroom or not.

His contagious laughter could frequently be heard throughout the school hallways. He also devoted considerable energy to the school’s annual Living Wax Museum, sharing his enthusiasm for history and helping students bring historical figures and stories to life.

Those who worked alongside him described his kindness, compassion, sense of humour and genuine concern for others as qualities that made a lasting impression. His influence on students, colleagues and the wider Sevastopol community will not be forgotten.

Marriage, Children and Family Life

Justin met his future wife, Stephanie Gail Valdez, while working at Sam’s Club in Appleton during his college years. Stephanie had visited the store to pick up a birthday cake, and Justin made an effort to stay in touch after their first meeting.

Their relationship grew, and they married on September 20, 2009, at the White Lace Inn in Sturgeon Bay. Together, they built a family and welcomed two daughters, Delaney and Amelia, who remained at the centre of Justin’s life.

He was devoted to his wife and children and treasured the time they spent together. Family travels were among his favourite experiences, including trips to Europe. However, Walt Disney World in Florida held a particularly special place in his heart and remained his favourite destination.

In recent years, Justin also enjoyed working on a personal dream: building a cabin on his property just outside Sturgeon Bay, in the Town of Nasewaupee.

Hobbies, Interests and Community Involvement

Outside the classroom and football field, Justin enjoyed recreational golf and eventually developed a passion for running. He participated in several 5K races over the years, embracing opportunities to stay active and challenge himself.

He also volunteered at Heritage Village at Big Creek, where he enjoyed teaching as “Justin the Journeyman.” He shared this experience with Mike Madden and Coggin Heeringa, creating another opportunity to connect with people through education and local history.

Whether spending time with his family, working on his cabin, travelling, playing sports or teaching, Justin found happiness in activities that brought people together.

Justin Michael Skiba’s Family

Justin is survived by his wife, Stephanie; their daughters, Delaney and Amelia; and his parents, David and Wendy Skiba of Seymour.

He is also survived by his nine siblings: Sarah (Jake) Newling of the Town of Osborn; Pam (Andy) Gorecki of Black Creek; David (Sarah) Skiba of Seymour; Steve (Jodell Gagnow) Skiba of Seymour; Zak (Tiffany) Skiba of Mequon; Alyssa (Brad) Beno of Neenah; Molly (Eric) Kropp of Thiensville; Abby (Dan) Schlenz of Greenville; and Jordan Skiba of Seymour.

His surviving family also includes aunts, uncles, many nieces and nephews, other relatives and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Reynold “Ray” and Irene Skiba; maternal grandparents, John and Alice Schuh; uncles Jeffery Skiba and Patrick Schuh; and other relatives.

Funeral and Memorial Service Arrangements

A memorial service celebrating Justin’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Huehns Funeral Home, located at 1414 Michigan Street in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. Pastor Bob Stewart will officiate.

Visitation for family and friends will take place at the funeral home on Sunday, November 8, from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. until 11:15 a.m., ahead of the memorial service.

Following the service, Justin will be laid to rest at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Institute, next to the school where he dedicated years of his life to teaching and the football field where he coached and encouraged young athletes.

Justin Michael Skiba leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his years in the classroom and on the football field. He was a devoted husband, loving father, son, brother, educator, coach and friend whose influence reached generations of students.

His kindness, infectious laughter, passion for teaching and commitment to the people around him will remain part of the memories cherished by his family and the Sevastopol community.

May Justin Michael Skiba rest in peace.