Palmer Rozel Skaaland

Palmer Rozel Skaaland, age 88, of rural Viroqua, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Vernon Manor. He was born June 19, 1936, in Newton Valley to Palmer and Monica (Wistenberg) Skaaland. He lived on the family farm in Newton Valley until he began college. Palmer proudly served in the U.S. Army, Troop C, 105th Reconnaissance. Since Palmer was in the 8th grade, he won many awards for his electrical achievements. His mother said his first word was ‘light’ while pointing to a kerosene lamp.

He graduated as an Electrical Design Engineer from U.W. Madison. He worked on an atomic energy project while at the university. He also gave a seminar on electromagnetic conduction at Lawrence College in Appleton, WI. He worked for 5-6 years at the University of Madison on nuclear research. This is just a sample of his many accomplishments.

Palmer was the most generous and sweet Christian gentleman with a good sense of humor who practiced his religion. He loved people and animals. He even flew to Nashville at his own expense to wire a little barn where a couple had taken in as many as 50 stray dogs.

Survivors include his best friend for 31 years, Elsie Reis; many cousins and friends.

Palmer was preceded in death by his parents and his infant brother, Eugene Skaaland.

A Funeral Service for Palmer will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Additional visitation will be held Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Palmer will be laid to rest at the Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery, rural Viroqua with full military honors. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com.

Palmer’s family would like to thank the caregivers at Vernon Manor and St. Croix Hospice for the care they provided.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Palmer's family.

708 S. Main St.

Westby, WI 54667

608-634-2100