The Chippewa Falls community came together Friday evening to dedicate a meaningful sculpture honoring two influential local figures who devoted their lives to serving others. The artwork serves as a lasting tribute to the late Reverend Kara Baylor and her mother, Marilyn Skatrud, both of whom left an indelible mark on the Wisconsin community through their dedication to faith, music, and public service.
Reverend Kara Baylor was widely recognized throughout the community for her unique and inspiring approach to ministry. She became known for delivering sermons that skillfully wove together scripture, music, and current events, creating a distinctive style that resonated deeply with congregants and community members alike. Her ability to connect biblical teachings with contemporary issues made her messages particularly relevant and impactful for those who heard her speak.
Marilyn Skatrud, Reverend Baylor's mother, shared a similar passion for music and community engagement. She dedicated much of her life to teaching and performing with various musical groups throughout the area, touching countless lives through her artistic talents and educational contributions. Her commitment to nurturing musical talent and bringing people together through performance created a lasting legacy in the local arts community.
The sculpture dedication was made possible through the generous support and initiative of the congregation at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Chippewa Falls. The church community recognized the significant impact these two women had on their lives and felt compelled to create a permanent memorial to honor their memory and contributions.
"It seemed like it really spoke to something. Going into the skies, we were talking about the heavens and how our families were connected together. It just seemed like the appropriate thing to represent these two beautiful women who touched so many lives in our community," explained Gary Gienap, a devoted congregant at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, speaking about the sculpture's symbolic meaning and its connection to the community.
The sculpture, which bears the evocative title "Newly Discovered," was created by artist Trenton Baylor, who is the late Reverend's husband. His personal connection to one of the honorees adds an especially poignant dimension to the artwork, as it represents not only a community tribute but also a deeply personal expression of love and remembrance. The piece stands as both a work of art and a testament to the enduring bonds of family and community that these remarkable women helped to strengthen throughout their lives.
