Michael Emil Skandera, 73, of Safety Harbor, Florida, passed away on November 3, 2025, at Morton Plant Hospital.
Born on June 5, 1952, in Danbury, Connecticut, Michael was the son of the late John and Bernice (George) Skandera.
Michael proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Independence, where he worked as an electrical and mechanical equipment repairman. Following his military service, he dedicated 30 years to the U.S. Postal Service in Clearwater, Florida, and also spent time working in various trades including roofing, construction, butchering, upholstery, and hotel operations.
In 1986, Michael married Debra (Wilhour) Skandera, in Clearwater, Florida. Together they shared over 39 years of marriage built on devotion to their family.
A man of many interests, Michael loved reading—especially the works of Stephen King—and took pride in home improvement projects and cooking for his family. He enjoyed watching football, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers being his favorite team. Michael was also deeply committed to service, donating more than ten gallons of blood during his lifetime and choosing to give life to others as an organ donor. Among his proudest achievements was his Navy service aboard the USS Independence.
Michael was a devoted father and a joyful new grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Debra Skandera; his daughter Charron Erd(Joe); his beloved grandson Zackary Erd; and his son Richard Skandera. He is also survived by his brothers John Skandera and Bill Skandera, his brother-in-law Thomas Richard Wilhour (Indra), and his sister Lisa Vincent, as well as, several nieces and nephews, and many extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bernice Skandera, as well as his brothers Richard Skandera and Ron Skandera.
Michael was a proud member of the American Postal Workers Union, The American Legion Post 238 of Safety Harbor, and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter Bay Pine–Holiday Isles #13.
A funeral service will held at 11:00 AM followed by A visitation from 12:00 to 12:30 PM on November 24, 2025, at Veterans Funeral Care.
He will be laid to rest at Bay Pines National Cemetery at 1:30PM on the same day.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Disabled American Veterans or The American Cancer Society in Michael’s honor.
Michael will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, a proud veteran, and a very generous man. His presence will be deeply missed by his family and those who loved him.
