Rolf Erling Skogstad

Rolf Erling Skogstad 

(1948–2026)

Rolf Erling Skogstad, 77, of Hixton, WI, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2026.

Rolf was born Sept. 23, 1948, in Eau Claire, WI, to Gladys and Franklin Skogstad. He attended the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where he studied English and went on to devote 27 years to a career in social work in Jackson County.

Rolf married Esther Hinshaw in 2002 in a beautiful Quaker ceremony on a hilltop. Together, they enjoyed gardening, hiking and spending time with their children and grandchildren.

An avid outdoorsman, Rolf felt most at home fly-fishing or immersed in the woods. He had a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of people and the natural world, and he moved through life with a quiet empathy that touched those around him. His kindness and compassion will live on in those who knew and loved him.

Rolf also found great joy in writing. He authored the monthly newsletter for Trout Unlimited in La Crosse and contributed essays and stories of his own. He also wrote editorials advocating for causes he cared deeply about, particularly the protection of the environment. His children and grandchildren looked forward to and treasured the personalized poetry and handwritten letters he included in their birthday cards each year.

Rolf is survived by his wife, Esther Hinshaw; his children, Erin Richardson (Kyle), Laura McNeill (Scott Kaplan) and Chris Thomas (James); and his stepchildren, Andrea Barbknecht (Scott Becker) and Lucas Barbknecht (Marisa). He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Nel, Jack and Ella McNeill, Elysia House, (Gavan) and Alayna, Jonah, and Grace Thomas; step-granddaughters Kira and Elise Becker; and great-grandchildren Adeline and Cohen House. He is further survived by his brother, Leif Skogstad (Sherry); and nephews, Eric Skogstad (Theresa) and Dan Skogstad (Justine). 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Franklin Skogstad.

A celebration of Rolf’s life will be held  Friday, Aug. 14, 3 to 5 p.m., at Revolution, 38  Main St., Black River Falls. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Rolf’s name may be made to The Nature Conservancy.