In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be.
Obituary
Joseph "Joe" John Skwira, a devoted father, beloved son, brother, friend, was found passed away unexpectedly at home on August 3, 2026, at the age of 55. Born on July 23, 1971, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Joe lived a life defined not by accomplishments, but by the love he gave so freely to his friends, his family, and anyone fortunate enough to know him. While his passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, his life was one filled with purpose, generosity, unwavering faith, and a deep devotion to the people he cherished.
Joe was preceded in death by his loving parents, Michael and Karen Skwira. He is survived by his four daughters: Claire Skwira (21), Chloe Skwira (19), Lydia Skwira (16), and Mikayla Skwira (16); by Jody Skwira, the mother of his children; his siblings, Peter Skwira, Michael Skwira, and Ann Skwira-Brown; and his cat, Ricky along with many beloved relatives, lifelong friends, coworkers, and all whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.
Growing up in Richfield, Minnesota, Joe built a childhood filled with love, laughter, and lifelong memories. He attended Minnehaha Academy before graduating from St. John's University. Nearly every weekend, the Skwira family packed up for the family cabin, the Black Eagle lodge where Joe spent countless days fishing, swimming, laughing with his siblings, and making memories with his parents that he would treasure forever. The cabin became more than a destination, it became the heart of his family and a place where lifelong traditions were created. As an adult, nothing brought Joe greater happiness than returning with his own daughters, sharing the same lake, the same stories, and the same simple joys that had shaped his childhood.
Joe enjoyed a successful career as a Chief Financial Officer, where he earned the admiration of colleagues through his intelligence, integrity, and thoughtful leadership. Yet if you asked him what he was most proud of, his answer would never have been his career.
Being a father was Joe's greatest purpose and proudest accomplishment. Claire, Chloe, Lydia, and Mikayla were the center of his world. He loved each of them unconditionally and found immense joy in watching them grow into remarkable young women. He taught them how to fish, encouraged them through life's biggest decisions, celebrated every accomplishment, and quietly showed them what unconditional love looked like. More than anything, he wanted his daughters to know they were capable, supported, and deeply loved.
More than anything, Joe was the person you called when life became difficult. He had a rare combination of quiet strength and an incredibly tender heart, always making sure everyone around him was taken care of before he ever thought about himself. Whether one of his daughters was facing a medical challenge, a friend needed a helping hand, or a family member simply needed someone to lean on, Joe was always the first to show up. He noticed when others were struggling, often before they asked for help, and stepped in without hesitation. He listened without judgment, offered reassurance with patience, and carried the burdens of the people he loved as though they were his own. His calm presence made others feel safe, supported, and never alone. Caring for others wasn't something Joe occasionally did—it was simply who he was and one of the greatest ways he showed his love. His family always knew that if Dad was there, everything would somehow be okay.
For Joe, food was another way of caring for the people he loved. Few things made him happier than watching everyone gathered around the table, enjoying something he had prepared with pride. He loved cooking, grilling, and smoking meats, and some of his family's favorite memories were made around the grill. His famous "Skwira Burgers" became a family tradition, and he took great pride in smoking sausages and homemade jerky to share with coworkers, friends, neighbors, and family.
An avid golfer, Joe found peace on the golf course. Golf wasn't simply a hobby—it was one of the places where he felt most at ease, surrounded by lifelong friends and enjoying the beauty of a Minnesota summer. Those who played alongside him knew it wasn't just about the score; it was about the conversations, the laughter, and the friendships that made every round memorable.
His happiest moments, however, were often the simplest: weekends at the cabin, afternoons by the pool, fishing with his daughters, grilling for family and friends, and laughing together long after the sun had gone down. Joe had an extraordinary gift for making ordinary days become lifelong memories. Looking back, those seemingly simple moments have become the ones his family treasures most.
Joe's faith guided the way he lived. His humility, compassion, gratitude, and generosity reflected the values he carried throughout his life. His faith was not only something he believed—it was something he lived each day through his kindness, his forgiveness, and his willingness to serve others.
Those who knew Joe will remember his gentle heart, thoughtful wisdom, loyalty, and remarkable ability to make people feel cared for. To his daughters, he was so much more than a father. He was their protector, teacher, biggest supporter, and safest place. He showed them what unconditional love looked like by the way he lived every day, and he gave them a foundation of faith, compassion, and strength that they will carry with them forever.
Joe leaves behind far more than memories he leaves behind a legacy. A legacy of unwavering love, strength, selfless generosity, and a heart that always puts others first. He taught his daughters what it means to lead with kindness, show up without being asked, work hard, and love unconditionally. His compassion, integrity, faith, and steadfast presence will continue to guide his family for generations to come.
Though his passing came far too soon, we find comfort in the countless moments we were blessed to share with him. We are profoundly grateful for every weekend at the cabin, every afternoon by the pool, every round of golf, every fishing trip, every "Skwira Burger,", every laugh around the table, and every quiet moment that reminded us how deeply we were loved. These memories are gifts that time can never take away.
Though his absence will be felt every day, so too will his presence: in the traditions he created, the values he instilled, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness. We will miss him beyond words, but we are endlessly grateful to have called him Dad. His life was a blessing, his love was a gift, and his legacy will continue to live on in all of us.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Assumption, 51 7th Street West, St. Paul, Minnesota 55102.
We love you Dad - Claire, Chloe, Lydia, Mikayla
Gallery
Memory wall
“And as the sunset faded I spoke to the faintest first starlight
And I said next time
Next time
We’ll get it right” – Bob Seger
To Claire, Chloe, Lydia, and Mikayla (Goodness gracious, Joe Skwira got 4 beautiful baby girls, and who said God doesn’t have a sense of humor?)
Girls,
I just wanted to share with you a nice memory of your Dad. Sorry if it seems stilted or awkward, I’m maybe not the best at telling stories. Anyhow.
It was the Summer of 1989, Joe would’ve been barely 18, fresh out of Minnehaha and enjoying the Summer with his family and friends, working some low wage job that you’ve probably heard about a thousand times, and most likely eating WAY too much Taco Bell. ANYHOW That Summer, the Dad of one of Joe’s friends experienced a medical emergency and had to have his appendix removed, a pretty major event for a guy pushing 50. This happened to occur during one of the hottest weeks of the hottest months of the Summer. Upon being discharged home and still very much on the mend, the temps were pushing 100f and there was no aircon in the home. It was dangerously hot for a healthy person much less someone in that condition. Joe happened to be at the friend’s house as this was all happening and without missing a beat stated that he had a window a/c unit available and that he would be right back. Sure enough, less than 2 hours later, that room was a cool 70f and all was good. That guy’s Dad was so happy, he would revisit that story for years. Joe initially never mentioned where he got the a/c unit from. Later, when pressed, it was discovered that he had driven home and pulled the a/c unit out of the window of his own bedroom, thereby going without so that old timer would be ok. I think at Joe’s request, the old timer never heard that second half of the story. Joe had nothing to gain from this, just did it from the goodness of his heart. That’s who he was, that was the Joe Skwira I knew.
Love to all.
Romans 12 1-21
Many years later to my surprise; we connected once again working at the same company. Going forward for the next 5 years he always made a point to stop at my work station for a brief chat.
I was very sad to hear this news and feel so sorry for his four girls who have lost their father way too soon. I will remember him for his quiet kindness and generosity of time.
Your dad was one of my childhood friends. He was the most kind (always smiling) guys. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing…Sending you all prayers, peace, and beautiful memories.
He was kind, generous, and always willing to help others.
His warmth, compassion, and giving heart touched the lives of everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Service
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
51 7th Street West, St. Paul, Minnesota 55102
51 7th Street West, St. Paul, Minnesota 55102
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