Eleanor Skaar

Eleanor Skaar passed away on July 26, 2025. She was born in Primghar, Iowa (O’Brien County) on January 30, 1927, to Al and Jesse Japenga. Eleanor married Gene Skaar of nearby Gaza, Iowa, on August 26, 1944. Eleanor and Gene resided in Iowa City, Iowa during the early 1950’s as he completed Pharmacy School. They lived in several midwestern states as Gene pursued his pharmacy career. They owned Skaar’s Pharmacy and Hallmark Store in Osage, Iowa from 1967 into the late 1980’s. Eleanor was an astute businesswoman and operated a successful Hallmark card and gift business. They retired and moved to Mesa, Arizona until 2011 when they returned to Osage due to Gene’s failing health. Eleanor tirelessly cared for Gene as he transitioned to Faith Lutheran Home near the end of his life. Eleanor continued to live in Osage until the time of her death and passed away peacefully while residing at Faith Lutheran Home.

Eleanor had many pastimes. She enjoyed watching sporting events and playing games, especially bridge. She was an avid golfer. She remained a dedicated Iowa Hawkeye fan and attended many football games in Iowa City. Another joy in her life was being with her grandchildren. In her last year, she took great pleasure in seeing her new great grandson, Camden. She enjoyed many long-term friendships in Osage including several past employees who continued to visit and help her as she aged.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gene; infant daughter, Peggy; parents, Al and Jesse; brothers, Jake and Ray; sisters, Gert, Joyce, and Irene.

She is survived by her sons, Daniel (Deb) of Shorewood, Minnesota, Mark of Santa Rosa, California; grandchildren, Megan Mangler (Jake) of Minnetonka, Minnesota, Jessica Foster (Ian) of San Diego, California, Jacqueline Skaar (Jase) of Austin, Texas, and Justine Zhu (Will) of Tustin, California; great grandchildren, Camden Mangler, Holden and Hawkins Foster.

At Eleanor’s request there will be no memorial service. Memorials may be sent to Faith Lutheran Home, 914 Davidson Drive Osage, Iowa 50461; the Osage Educational Foundation PO Box 82 Osage, Iowa 50461 or a charity of your choice. Our family loved her dearly and will miss her greatly.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements.