Galen J. Skaare

Galen J. Skaare, 60, of Bismarck, ND passed away on August 14, 2017.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 19th, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck. Galen was born August 13th, 1957 at Mercy Hospital in Williston, ND to James “Bud” Skaare and Minnie Skaare.  A 1974 graduate of Williston High School, Galen went on to work as a state seed and grain inspector for a number of years before working for the Schultz Creamery in Bismarck.  However, Galen found his true calling as a baker.  Perfecting his craft for over 17 years at Bread Poets Bakery in Bismarck, Galen is remembered by many for his time there; and even those who may not have known Galen can recall the fragrance and flavors of the lovingly prepared goods he produced.  He had the seemingly rare gift of being both an excellent baker and an excellent cook.  He enjoyed preparing elaborate meals to share with friends and family. Galen was an avid sports fan and taking early retirement afforded him the freedom to do what he loved best—enjoy the true four seasons: baseball, football, hockey and basketball.  For Galen, nothing compared to watching the New York Yankees play in the summer; and cozying up in the fall and winter to root for the Chicago Bears.  Watching his favorite college basketball team, the North Carolina Tarheels, win the 2017 NCAA Championship after the 2016 loss made March Madness a treat for him.  A beloved brother, uncle, and friend, he especially enjoyed visits with his brother, Gene, and sister, Georgia; and the company of his friends, often gathering at the local Rockin’ 50s Café.  Galen had a terrific sense of humor and was always telling jokes or pulling pranks.  His contagious laughter and warm smile will be missed by all who loved and cared for Galen.  He had a heart for animals and cared deeply for his four cats, DaVinci, Dante, Destiny and Decker. He is survived by his sister, Georgia Raulston, Mesa, AZ; and her children, Todd (Chris) Raulston; Brent Raulston and his children Chase (23), Mya (15) & Scarlett (7); and Seth (Tiffany) Raulston and their children Ansley (17), Marley (12), Hartley (7), Daxley (4), Huxley (2); brother Gene (Phyllis) Skaare, Dickinson, ND; and their children, Joani Skaare (JC) and her children, Micaela (17), McKenna (12); Jon (Becky) Skaare and their children, Austin (13), Ethan (11) and Sierra (9); and Jeffrey (Marya) Skaare and their children, Harper (11), and Hetta (8); 1 great nephew, Cameron Raulston and his love and companion in this life, Debbie Eisenhauer.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and infant brother, Clayton Skaare.