Bernard Larry "Bernie" Skala

Bernard Larry “Bernie” Skala, 80, of Three Oaks, died peacefully Monday, December 21, 2020.

He was born March 27, 1940 in Baroda, Michigan, the third child born to August Sr. and Alma Skala.  He married Maxine Dee Kirk September 23, 1967 in New Troy Brethren Church, New Troy, Michigan.    

Bernard and Maxine purchased and built Skala Farms in 1967.  He grew the farm for his three boys and was incredibly proud to see them continue the legacy they began.  Berne was passionate about being a farmer, especially working with his Allis-Chalmers tractors and equipment.  He enjoyed spending time working in his yard, riding his bicycles, and helping others in his community.  He cherished his many cats and dogs that he had over the years.  Bernie also spent a number of years working for Clark Equipment in Buchanan.    

Bernie will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Maxine D. Skala of Three Oaks; three sons, Jeff, Todd, and Chad Skala, all of Three Oaks; one   sister, Jan Bergeron of Plymouth, Indiana; one brother, August (Shirley) Skala Jr. of Buchanan; and a host of nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Juanita Dufchek; one niece, Jodie Dufchek; and two brothers in law, Ray Dufchek and Ronald Bergeron.

Family and friends will gather Monday, December 28, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. until time of service at 3:00 p.m. in Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks.  Mr. Skala will be laid to rest in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Three Oaks, where Full Military Honors will be accorded by active members of the US Army and the Honor Guard of the Randall Couchman American Legion Post 204 of Three Oaks.

The family prefers contributions in Bernard’s memory be made to American Parkinson Disease Association, Post Office Box 61420, Staten Island, New York 10306.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks.  Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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