Audrey Edith Skaar

Audrey Edith (Oestreich) Skaar

Audrey Skaar, 92, departed this world on January 5, 2020.  She is survived by her four children--Randall Skaar (Betsy), Daniel Skaar (Darlene), Heather Catania (Thomas) and Cynthia Skaar—6 grandchildren who were dear to her heart and 3 great grandchildren, who were the icing on the cake, as she never expected to have any. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey, and her brother, Merrill Oestreich.

Audrey was born and raised in White Bear Lake. After high school, she attended the University of Minnesota, earning a B.S. in Economics. Her first job was at the Mayo Clinic where she worked until she married.

She and Harvey raised their children in Golden Valley. Her happiest years were spent at their house on Sweeney Lake, where she turned the kids loose to swim, fish and waterski. It was the perfect place for her as she loved nature and being outdoors—traits she got from her mother.

As empty-nesters, Audrey and Harvey wintered in Hawaii, and travelled extensively, often to Gopher football games and once to see the Vikings in the Superbowl. Audrey also enjoyed her women’s golf league, bowling league and bridge clubs and excelled at entertaining their large group of friends. In her free time, she loved to work crossword puzzles, read, watch sports and spend time at her cabin in Wisconsin.

Audrey was a woman of few words, but she always got her point across. Except for her iconic Cadillac, she was very reserved. She led by example and taught her children to be strong and to play the hand you are dealt. She never complained even when no one would have faulted her for doing so. She was a wonderful mother—an excellent listener, she was quick to offer sympathy and slow to offer advice. She will be greatly missed.

A private graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park in St. Anthony, MN.

Memorials may be made to the Michael J. Fox or Parkinson’s foundations.