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ISHPEMING -- The city of Ishpeming announced the passing of council member Stuart 'Stu' Skauge on Friday.
Skauge, 73, was a public school teacher for 33 years, a member of the Michigan Education Association, including time as the president-elect, president and chief negotiator for his bargaining unit in the Marquette Area Public Schools for over 25 years, according to the city of Ishpeming.
He also became the MEA UniServ director in Marquette and Alger counties for another decade before retiring.
"My sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Stu Skauge. I, along with so many others, have had the honor of calling Stu a mentor and friend," Ishpeming Mayor Jason Chapman said on the city's website. "Stu embodied what it means to serve others; he is a veteran and lifetime member and leader of the VFW, an educator, a leader and inductee into the U.P. Labor Hall of Fame, and as a city council member here in Ishpeming for many decades. He always put the needs of others before his and I am honored to have been able to serve on the city council with my mentor and friend."
Skauge also served in the U.S. military as a sergeant (E-5) during the Vietnam War, stationed in Korea, according to the city's post. Skauge was a lifetime member and former commander of the Ishpeming VFW Post #4573.
Skauge could be observed leading a parade and participating in planning Memorial Day services. He also could be found standing in jubilee supporting the VFW Buddy Poppy program, which provides financial assistance in maintaining state and national veterans' rehabilitation and service programs and partially supports the VFW National Home.
"Stu was a brother-in-arms, supervisor and friend who will be greatly missed," City Manager Craig Cugini said on the city's website. "His constant support to the veterans and devotion to this town will leave a void like no other."
Skauge loved Ishpeming and represented the residents. He was notably part of the development panel for the construction and paving of Malton Road and the construction of the Lake Bancroft Pavilion and Ishpeming Senior Center.
"It is a sad day for the city of Ishpeming, we have lost a kind and active person that I will never forget," Council Member Pat Scanlon said on the city's website. "Fly high Councilman Skauge."
Following his retirement, Skauge remained a dedicated leader in retirement, serving on the Ishpeming City Council for seven years and continuing to be active with the MBA-Retired organization.
"Stu will be greatly missed by so many," assistant to the city manager Cathy Smith said on the city's website. "He always gave so much to the City of Ishpeming, as well as so many other organizations. My condolences go out to all of his family and friends."