Bloomington, MN - Ommund "Ben" Skaar, 77, of Bloomington, MN, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 31, 2026, while on a road trip in New Orleans, LA. A celebration of his life will be held later this year.

Born April 26, 1948 in Blue Earth, MN, Ben was the youngest of four children of Lars and Wylma (Payne) Skaar. After the death of his father, Ben left high school to help tend the family farm—an early reflection of his sense of responsibility and devotion to those he loved. He later followed his oldest brother to the University of Iowa, where he earned a business degree. Though he turned down both a congressional appointment to the Air Force Academy and a full music scholarship, Ben continued to nurture a lifelong passion for learning, service, and discipline. During his time at Iowa, he participated in JROTC and proudly served for many years as an Army Reservist.

It was also at Iowa that Ben met his former spouse, Mary Jo Skaar. The two married and moved to the Twin Cities, where Ben began what would become a deeply fulfilling career in the financial services industry. His first professional home was Arthur Andersen, where he received mentorship that shaped his professional path and ultimately gave him the confidence to start a business of his own.

In 1977, Ben co‑founded Askar Corp, where he dedicated 34 years to mentoring colleagues and serving clients who became lifelong friends. He and his partners then transitioned from Askar to LPL Financial & Private Advisor Group, later retiring after 50 years in financial services. Ben was one of those rare individuals who truly loved his work. He found tremendous satisfaction in helping people plan for each stage of life, always driven by his genuine care for the wellbeing of others. His values—integrity, generosity, and empathy—became the foundation of Askar and were instilled in his children. His son Trevor later followed in his footsteps, working alongside him and benefiting from Ben's steady guidance and deep expertise.

Outside of work, Ben embraced life with warmth and enthusiasm. He loved to fish, travel, share conversations over a glass of wine, cook, relax at the cabin, and spend time with family—especially his grandchildren. His children remain grateful for the effort he put into creating opportunities for the family to gather and stay connected. His sense of humor, optimism, and easy laughter were a constant.

Ben inherited a love of road trips from his father, making it fitting that his final evening was spent in a city he had cherished, a city he visited on a childhood family trip. At the time of his passing, he was on a month‑long road adventure with his longtime partner, Mary Burmann, with whom he shared many meaningful years. Through Mary, Ben also enjoyed an expanded and enriched family life, loving her children and grandchildren as part of his own circle.

Ben is survived by his children: Eric (Emily), Trevor (Johanna), and Katie; and by his six beloved granddaughters: Prescott, Ella, Audrey, Elowyn, Raeden, and Rooney. He is also survived by Mary Burmann and her children, Angela and her son Michael and Andy (Angela) and his daughter Olive. Additional survivors include his sister Judith Hofmaier and her sons Dale, Russel, and Steven; niece Dana Skaar; nephew Mark Skaar; and many extended family members, close friends, and devoted fishing buddies.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Sidney and Lonney; and niece Erin Skaar.

Ben's life was guided by a steadfast belief in staying optimistic and understanding that challenges are simply part of the journey. His generosity, humor, and unwavering positivity touched so many. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and connection that will be deeply missed and forever remembered.