Scott A. Stanius
July 29, 1956-January 25, 2021
Scott was born to Gilbert and Ferne (Hiljus) in St. Paul, MN. Growing up, he created many fond memories with family and friends at "The Shack," a cabin built by his Grandpa Gust in Isanti County; as well as at his parent's resort, "Breezy Pines," in Grand Rapids, MN.
Scott graduated from Tartan High School in 1974. He was a student athlete and competed as a "wrastler." Throughout his life, he also enjoyed the sport as a spectator. Many of his nieces and nephews as well as his children and grandchildren have been caught by one of his flying elbows, headlocks or body slams.
In 1978, Scott began his career as a granite and marble mason at Schoenrock Monument in St. Paul. He was very passionate about honoring the lives of many people through his artistry of crafting monuments and memorials. Scott worked through much of his cancer treatments and retired "when he was ready" in July 2020.
Scott also enjoyed the outdoors be it walking through the woods, on a boat fishing or in a deer stand hunting. He loved hanging out with his hunting buddies and was grateful he was able to be at "Deer Lodge" this past season.
Scott loved his longtime girlfriend, Sandra Hall, as well as their dogs Gizmo and Scooter. Together, they enjoyed picking on each other and laughing. He appreciated that he had a spot for his fancy sittin' chair in front of his tv at their home in Vadnais Heights.
Scott's true pride and joy were his children, Adam and Nicole. Together, they were the "3 Amigos;" if you got one of them, you got all of them. As a single father, Scott raised his kids in Spring Lake Park. Under his "expert tutelage," he instilled faith, trust, honesty, a hard work ethic and the importance of never giving up. In their adult years, Scott became his children's best friend, creating a very special and unique bond that will never be broken.
When Scott became a grandpa, his life was overjoyed. He was so happy spending time with his grandkids. Oftentimes he'd tell Nicole he was going to, "Teach them how to behave;" only to teach them shenanigans like pounding their fists on the table while continuously yelling, "We want lamb chops!"
Scott had a zest for life and an amazing sense of humor. He was truly a goofball! He had a warm smile and gave the greatest hugs. His optimism and positivity were radiant; he always found the good in every situation. Scott was tenacious which was evident during his 18-month long battle with esophageal cancer. He truly lived, and enjoyed life, one day at a time.
On January 25, 2021, Scott was welcomed "home" peacefully surrounded by his favorite people, knowing he was loved beyond measure. Scott is reunited through death with his grandson, Evan Scott Greenhagen; parents, Gilbert and Ferne (Hiljus) Stanius; brother, Bradley Stanius; and his partner in crime, his 19-year-old dog, Duke. He will be deeply missed by his son, Adam (Melissa) Stanius; daughter, Nicole (Brock) Greenhagen; grandchildren, Quinn, Vaughn and Vienna Greenhagen; girlfriend, Sandra Hall; sister, Lynn Heartman as well as many other family members and friends. A visitation will be held from 4-8pm on Friday, January 29th. A private entombment will be held at Oakland Cemetery in St. Paul. Memorials to the family preferred.