Dean Skinner

We are saddened to share the news of Dean Skinner's death. He transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly home on October 18, 2024, at the Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton, IL. He was surrounded by his loving family. Dean H. Skinner was born on June 11, 1936, in Chicago, IL, the oldest of four sons to Earle Ivan and Dorothy Neva (Harvey) Skinner. He married Ardith E. Damerell on September 12, 1964, at the United Presbyterian Church in Washburn, IL. She survives. Surviving are  his wife, his brothers, Roger (Deanna), Steven (Elizabeth), stepbrother, Dan (Carole) Meyer, sister-in-law, Linda Skinner, nine nephews and nieces, thirteen great nephews and nieces, two great-great nieces, and Ardith's nephew and great nephew. Dean was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ron, stepfather, Paul Meyer, and brother-in-law, Quintin Damerell. Dean was a graduate of Washington High School Class of 1954 and Bradley University Class of 1958. Upon graduating from Bradley, he began employment at LeTourneau Westinghouse (Komatsu), retiring from there in 1995, as a Senior Design Engineer. He was a veteran, having served in the U.S. Air Force and Illinois Air Guard; and was actively deployed in the early 1960's. Dean was a member of Crossroads Global Methodist Church of Washington since March 21, 1948. In retirement, he volunteered at the church for various functions. For many years, he assisted at collections centers for Franklin Graham's Operation Christmas Child. He was always willing to help others. He was a member of Plymouth Owner's Club, Inc. and Lincoln Land Plymouth Owner's Club. He enjoyed his antique cars and the fellowship with the club members. He was also a member of the National Watch and Clock Collectors Association and enjoyed collecting and working on clocks. His strong work ethic began at a young age and continued throughout his lifetime. His earliest jobs included putting out timecards at LeTourneau-Westinghouse, delivering newspapers, mowing lawns, and working at grocery stores. While attending Bradley, he was employed by Klaus TV. His witty sense of humor made for many laughs. He enjoyed get togethers with his family, Ardith's family, church family, high school classmates, and with friends from his many associations over the years. He and Ardith enjoyed many vacations in the USA and Europe. Recently, he had connections with both The Bridge United Methodist Church and Crossroads Global Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to The Bridge United Methodist Church, Crossroads Global United Methodist Church or Apostolic Christian Restmor Home in Morton. Many thanks to the Apostolic Christian Restmor for providing Dean with a wonderful home for the past two years, and for the concern and thoughtfulness extended to him and his family. A funeral service is scheduled for 11 am on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Evangelical United Methodist Church in Washington. Pastor Tom Goodell and Pastor Bob DeBolt will officiate.  Vistitation will be from 10 am until his time of service also at the church.  Burial will follow his service at Linn Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Washburn. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington has been entrusted with arrangements.  To share a memory or send a condolence to his family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.