Derek Justin Skajewski

Derek Justin Skajewski, 36, Ham Lake, MN, passed away on March 10, 2026.  He was born September 29, 1989 at North memorial hospital in Minneapolis, MN to Peter Skajewski and Ardella Tonga.  He was the 6th of 8 children.

Derek grew up in the Minneapolis area.  He met Christina Iverson through his sister, Harmony Skajewski.  The two had a daughter, Marleah.

Derek overcame a lot of obstacles through his life.  Through it all, he remained hard-working, was funny, smart, and kind.  He was witty and always had the best comebacks.  Derek had a special connection with his mother.  He loved her dearly.  He also loved all the kids in his life.  Derek had the utmost respect for young people and his elders.

He loved to work on motorcycles and cars, spending hours tinkering in the garage.  He was very Christ-centered.  Derek spent hours reading books about psychology, grief, and the Bible to understand himself and the world around him.

Grateful for having shared in Derek’s life are his daughter, Marleah; parents, Peter Skajewski and Ardella Tonga; siblings, Jamie, Joey, Petie, Ashley, Harmony, and Jasmine; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ardell Tonga and Thelma Tonga; and sister, Lisa Marie Skajewski.

Celebration of Live will be at Dale Evangelical Free Church in Harris, MN at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Friends and family are welcome to sign the online guestbook.