Michael John Skrabala

Mike wore many different hats during his life, husband, father, son, brother, grandfather - photographer, small business owner, serviceman - to name a few, but the theme that united them all was his sense of family, his humor and his loving heart. Mike always wanted to help, take care of his family, and have a good laugh.

Mike was born on August 29, 1956, in British Columbia, Canada. His father’s Air Force career took them many places, including the Philippines and Arizona, ending up in Lubbock, Texas where he met and married the love of his life on June 24th, 1977. During his own time in the Air Force from 1978 to 1986, Mike served as a photographer. His career, first in photography and photo finishing, then in computer technology, took his family to Texas, New Mexico, Guam, Oklahoma and Maine before putting down roots in Virginia.

Since retiring in 2014, Mike cherished spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids. His interests included photography, building models, scrapbooking, collecting guns, listening to audio books, playing ukelele and constantly seeking new knowledge, such as taking a class on forensic science. Mike had an unending love for his dogs and played with them every day.

He is survived by his loving wife, Reyna Skrabala, his children, Johnny Skrabala (wife Joanna), Troye Hamilton (husband David), and Daniel Skrabala, his grandchildren, Milo, Ash, Tabitha, Piper, Samantha and Kaiden, his sister Anita Ataie (husband Shon), nephews Tim (wife Amanda) and Nick (wife Ellen) and grandniece, Laura. Mike’s warm presence and infectious sense of humor will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ladislaus and Faye Skrabala, and his sister Mary Ann Skrabala.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 9th, at 1 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church located at 903 Forest Avenue, Henrico, VA 23229.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to "The Trinity Foundation" and mailed to Trinity UMC at 903 Forest Avenue, Henrico, VA 23229.

Michael John Skrabala will forever be remembered for his joyful spirit, kindness, and larger-than-life personality. May he rest in peace.