Justin Skiba Obituary and Cause of Death – Sturgeon Bay Community Mourns Beloved Teacher and Football Coach

The Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, community is mourning the loss of Justin Michael Skiba, a devoted teacher, football coach, husband, father, and friend whose kindness and enthusiasm left a lasting impression on the people around him. Justin passed away on Saturday morning, October 31, 2026, at the age of 40.

Known for his dedication to education, love of sports, and genuine care for his students, Justin built meaningful connections throughout his years at Sevastopol School. His passing leaves a deep void in the lives of his wife, daughters, family members, colleagues, former students, and friends.

Early Life and Education

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

During his high school years, Justin participated in football and golf at Seymour High School, graduating with the class of 2004. Teaching was a dream he carried from an early age, and he pursued that ambition through his college education.

He initially studied at UW–Fox Valley in Menasha before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, where he earned his bachelor's degree in 2009.

Teaching Career and Dedication to Sevastopol School

Justin began working at Sevastopol School on August 18, 2009, where he taught third grade. Education was more than a profession to him; it was an opportunity to encourage young people, help them discover their abilities, and make them feel valued.

His involvement with the school extended beyond the classroom. Justin coached junior varsity football before becoming the varsity head coach, serving in that role from 2009 through 2015. He also led a committee that helped the school transition from traditional 11-man football to the eight-man format.

Even when he was not coaching, Justin remained closely connected to the school's sporting activities. He enjoyed playing quarterback and refereeing football games during recess, as well as participating in the annual staff-versus-students football and basketball games.

His commitment to education also received recognition from Wisconsin Public Television. Justin collaborated with six other educators to develop lesson plans for the Wisconsin Hometown Stories Project, contributing to an initiative that brought local history into the classroom.

A Lasting Impact on Students and Colleagues

Justin's colleagues and students remembered him as a kind-hearted educator who had a special ability to connect with children. Those who worked alongside him described someone who made students feel noticed and appreciated, whether they were in his classroom or simply encountered him in the school halls.

His contagious laugh, sense of humor, compassion, and willingness to give his time helped make the school community a more welcoming place.

One of his cherished educational activities was the annual Living Wax Museum, through which he shared his enthusiasm for history and helped students bring historical figures and stories to life.

The appreciation expressed by the Sevastopol community reflects the influence he had on generations of students. His dedication was evident not only in his teaching and coaching but also in the personal relationships he developed throughout the school.

Football, Volunteering, and Personal Interests

Football remained an important part of Justin's life long after his high school years. He played quarterback for the semi-professional Green Bay Gladiators from 2007 until 2012, continuing to enjoy the sport that had shaped so much of his youth.

Away from school and football, Justin enjoyed recreational golf and later developed an interest in running, participating in various 5K races over the years.

He also volunteered at Heritage Village at Big Creek, where he treasured the opportunity to teach as “Justin the Journeyman” alongside Mike Madden and Coggin Heeringa.

Traveling with his family brought him happiness, including trips to Europe. However, Walt Disney World in Florida remained his favorite destination.

In more recent years, Justin devoted time and energy to building his dream cabin on his property just outside Sturgeon Bay, in the Town of Nasewaupee.

Family and Loved Ones

Above all, Justin cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, and their daughters, Delaney and Amelia, who were central to his life.

He is also survived by his parents, David and Wendy Skiba of Seymour, and his siblings: Sarah (Jake) Newling, Pam (Andy) Gorecki, David (Sarah) Skiba, Steve (Jodell Gagnow) Skiba, Zak (Tiffany) Skiba, Alyssa (Brad) Beno, Molly (Eric) Kropp, Abby (Dan) Schlenz, and Jordan Skiba.

His extended family includes aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends who will continue to remember him with affection.

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

Cause of Death

Justin Skiba passed away on October 31, 2026, at the age of 40. The obituary information provided does not disclose a cause of death.

No specific illness, accident, or other circumstance should be assumed without confirmation from his family or an authoritative source.

Memorial Service and Visitation Arrangements

Family, friends, former students, colleagues, and members of the community will have an opportunity to gather and celebrate Justin's life at Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay.

The memorial arrangements are as follows:

• Visitation: Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Additional visitation: Monday, November 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
• Memorial service: Monday, November 9, at 11:30 a.m.
• Location: Huehns Funeral Home, 1414 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin 54235.
• Officiant: Pastor Bob Stewart.

Justin will be laid to rest at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Institute, next to the school where he taught and the football field where he coached.

Those wishing to honor his memory may make memorial contributions to Heritage Village at Big Creek. Contributions should be made payable to the Door County Historical Society, P.O. Box 71, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. Heritage Village is located at 2041 Michigan Street in Sturgeon Bay, a place Justin deeply valued.

Remembering Justin Michael Skiba

Justin's life was shaped by his love of teaching, sports, history, and family. At Sevastopol School, he was much more than a teacher and coach. He was a mentor who encouraged students, a colleague who brought laughter into the halls, and a caring presence who helped others feel included.

His influence will live on through the students he taught, the players he coached, the colleagues who worked beside him, and the family and friends who carry his memory forward.

Heartfelt condolences go out to Stephanie, Delaney, Amelia, the Skiba family, and everyone mourning Justin's passing.

Information Disclaimer: This article is based on the obituary information provided. Details about Justin's life, family, memorial arrangements, and service to the community have been presented from that material. The cause of death was not disclosed in the information available for this article, and no unconfirmed explanation is being suggested.