Les Skramstad

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization mourns the passing of Les Skramstad, age 70, lost his 11 year battle to asbestos caused diseases and mesothelioma on Sunday, April 21st 2007.

Les became an activist to warn people about the dangers of asbestos.  "This didn't happen to us, this was done to us," Skramstad has said more times than he can count. "It was done to us, and that's what people don't understand."  He has talked to individuals, groups and legislators all over the country and had become friends with governors and senators.  In 1999 Les was instrumental in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reporting the situation in Libby.

Les worked at Zonolite, a vermiculite mine company purchased in 1963 by W.R. Grace Co., for three short years as a sweeper.  Les was diagnosed with asbestosis in 1996 and then mesothelioma in 2007.   

“Les will be always remembered for his honesty, courage, integrity and his unwavering commitment to justice and asbestos disease awareness,” said Linda Reinstein, Executive Director and Cofounder of Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO).  

Les and Norita join Gayla Benifield in Washington D.C. for the 1st 2005 Asbestos Awareness Day.  

“Les was a hero.  If there was ever anyone who had their moral compass pointing in the right direction, it was Les,” said Margy Urnberg, ADAO National Representative Director and former Libby resident.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Norita of 51 years, 5 children; Laurel, Brent, Gayla, Brady and Sloan and grandchildren.  Several of Les’ family members also suffer from asbestos-related diseases.

Memorial donations can be made to Center for Asbestos Disease Center,  214 East 3rd Street, Libby, MT 59923


Les Skramstad and Gayla Benifield in Washington D.C.
          for the 1st 2005 Asbestos Awareness Day