Barbara M. Skeels

Barbara M. Skeels, age 90, of Winona, passed away on Friday, December 1, 2023, at the Adith Miller Manor.

She was born May 21, 1933, the daughter of Clement and Frances (Schreiber) Cysewski in Winona, MN.

She was united in marriage with James Edward Skeels, on January 7, 1955, at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Winona, and he preceded her in death on January 6, 2009.

Barb was a life-long member of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, its Polish and funeral choirs, and she enjoyed singing with the choirs of St. Mary’s Church and St. Casimir’s Church.  Barb was also a member of the Polish Museum, the Polish Heritage Society, and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She was employed at Kresge's and K-Mart as a check-out clerk for many years.

Survivors include her children: Lu Ann Powers, Grand Marsh, WI; Paul (Sheila) Skeels, Winona; Mary Kay (Greg) Martin, La Crosse, WI; and Edward (Becki) Skeels, Oshkosh, WI; grandchildren: Ben, Bernadette and Daniel Powers; Crystal Solomon; Andrew, David and Emily Skeels; Marissa and Dakota Martin; and Addison Skeels; a brother, Robert Cysewski, Seattle, WA; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sisters: Eleanor Houck, Mary Johnson, and Betty Beranek.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.  The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate.  Barb will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery.

A special thank you to the staff at Adith Miller Manor and Winona Health Hospice for the tender loving care of Barbara and her family.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Barb’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.