Obituary: Skierka, John Bernard
Age 80
SKIERKA,
John Bernard
“JB”
October 13, 1935- May 2, 2016
JB fought until the last breath before being reunited with his family in Heaven.
He was the youngest brother of Alice Michel (deceased) and Betty Randall.
He married the love of his life, Gwen Hobbs in 1957.
Together they raised four children, Jeff Skierka (Monica), Kelly May, Sandy Montana (Ron Bates) and Tom Skierka (Tanja).
He served our country in Germany from 1953 to 1955.
He was employed by the Inland Empire Paper Company for 39 years.
He led by example and was deeply respected by his coworkers.
A beloved man, he never met a stranger.
JB was the first to tell a joke and the loudest to laugh.
He served people, friends, and his family freely giving of himself and his time to ensure others had a better life.
He was always the first to offer his hand in friendship or any assistance needed.
He was an avid golfer, card player and skier.
He loved traveling and took every vacation as a challenge to beat the clock, burn the daylight and expand his circle of friends.
A perfect evening for him would be at a table with friends, eating snacks, drinks, bridge and rousing conversations.
JB was more than a parent, he was a Dad.
He gave his time freely to his children, going to their sporting events, plays and concerts regardless of the shift he had to work.
To the neighborhood kids, he was a father figure who will be remembered for building skating rinks, baseball fields, and providing a place to camp at night and to always feel safe in our backyard.
For many, he was also the Dad that showed up at their games, cheering loudly and praising their accomplishments.
As Grandpa JB, his time was theirs and he relished every minute with his ten grandchildren and four great-granddaughters.
His van was their bus to ensure passage to events and many stops for meals and treats afterward.
Table conversations recount of the things they said and did and retold years later.
He had a lot of pride being called Grandpa and took the title proudly.
He was quick on the draw with his wallet and almost took it personally if someone else tried to pay.
He will be remembered for his laughter, integrity, generosity, his shocking sense of humor, quick wit and the love he gave all.
A special thanks to the staff at Whispering Creek in the Spokane Valley, the Veterans Hospital and Horizon Hospice for their amazing care, love and support.
A Celebration of JB’s Life will be held Thursday, May 12, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 304 S. Adams Rd, Spokane Valley followed by Inurnment at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake.
Donations to the House of Charity are encouraged in lieu of flowers.
Please visit www.HennesseyFuneralHomes.com to share your thoughts and memories with our family.