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Dale Skellie Obituary
Fairport, NY: August 13, 2008. Survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Carla; 2 daughters, Devon Skellie and Deanna Skellie; 1 sister, Karen (Ron) Anthony; 2 brothers, David (Frances) Skellie and Craig (Cindy) Skellie; several nieces and nephews. Dale was a long time employee of the Berry Company and had been in advertising for 27 years.
Friends are welcome to call at the Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Rd., Fairport (Egypt location) Sunday, 3-7, where a Funeral Service will be held Monday at 11 AM. Interment, White Haven. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Fairport United Methodist Church in Dale's memory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dale Skellie
Eric Hedlund
September 12, 2008
Dear Skellie Family,
I was surprised and saddened to learn about Dale’s death this past month. Although I have been out of touch with Dale and family for many years, I have fond memories of Dale in our years at Edinboro. Dale was a good friend to me during that time. We hung out together a lot, played basketball in the intramural league, and ate a lot of meals together at VanHouten.Hall. He was good-natured, easy-going and always had a positive attitude. He had a winning smile. He could always make me laugh. I can’t remember him ever getting angry about anything. He was a good musician, and he’s probably the reason I still like “Chicago”. I also remember the times that my wife Cindy and I watched Dale in “Saginaw” and “McMillan and Life” appearances. We had a great time at the “happy hours” and other gigs the bands had. Well, there are too many memories to write down… I was certainly blessed to have had Dale for a friend. My prayers are with you..
Eric Hedlund
John and Jan Skendall
September 7, 2008
Dear Carla,
Thanks so much for the phone call today. I still can't quite believe that Dale is gone, but I have nothing but great memories of playing with him in the Saginaw and McMillin and Life bands. He was a great musician and performer and always gave his best.
Does anyone remember his favorite onstage joke? It went something like this: Dale - "People used to call me Napoleon, but then they stopped doing that." Band - "Why?" Dale - "Because I can't get my Boneapart!"
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It was great seeing some of the family at our recent gig in Conneaut Lake.
We truly believe that Dale is in Rock and Roll Heaven.
With love, John and Jan
Mary Ellen (Kuhn) Wolters
September 3, 2008
Dear Carla:
Words cannot express how deeply sorry I am to hear of Dale's passing. Although in hearing this tragic news, I was taken back 30+ years to a time when we had so much fun and crazy times. Times that I remember so fondly of you and Dale and especially the time Dale announced your engagement (at what club, I admit I don't remember) -- but you were dressed in green, had laced up espadrilles on and Dale (who had some sequined jumpsuit on, I'm sure) was beaming and I believe you were a little too! I'll always miss those days. As you face this most trying time, please know that my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and Devon and Deanna. I pray that God's grace will help guide you through this and give you comfort and peace.
Barbara Meguro
August 30, 2008
Dear Karen, David, and Craig,
We Tenpas kids were shocked and saddened to learn of Dale's passing. We have such fond memories of our many family camping trips to Allegany State Park (hikes, the cold swimming pool, gathering firewood, campfires, and magnificent singing.) Activities with your family were a wonderful part of our childhood. Family friends like you are a special blessing, and it is with heavy hearts that we leave this message. Our prayers go out to you during this difficult time.
Barbara, Nancy, Janet, and Ron
Bruce Schmitt
August 30, 2008
Carla..It's been a long time since I heard from anyone in the Berry/GTE/Bell Atlantic Yellow Pages group. When David Budinski called me with news of Dale's illness, I was shocked. I'm sorry for your loss. Dale was a good man and a helpful colleague. God bless you and your family
Steve & Kathy Barnett
August 25, 2008
Carla, Devon, & Deanna,
We were deeply saddened to read the online obituary for Dale this morning. Our memory of him is that he was such a fun-loving guy to be around. He will surely be missed and we hope all the memories you have of him as husband and father will bring you much comfort. You are all very lovingly in our thoughts.
August 22, 2008
As hard as it was dealing with the yellow pages, we always looked forward to Dales visit. He made the difficult task easier and with humor. He will be missed.
Jim and Elaine, Rochester Automatic Heating.
Sharon Daly
August 21, 2008
Dear Dave and family,
I am sending my condolences long distance since I cannot be there to say goodbye to Dale.
Seeing another McDowell classmate of mine pass away makes me sad.
I remember you and Dale the "twins" in high school.
Please know that Dale is probably up there in heaven playing the trombone as he did down here.
God bless you during this precious time.
Robin (Schruers) Henson
August 20, 2008
Dear Craig and Family,
I read Dale's online obituary with great sadness. I am so sorry for the depth of pain and grief you are suffering. If we could only keep our loved ones forever.
There are many happy times to recall of Ardmore Ave. and the years the boys were still at home. I vividly remember the first time Dale brought Carla to a family dinner. Her million dollar smile and vibrant personality. I wanted hair just like hers.
Then on to "McMillin & Life" and many fabulous nights at Rainbow Gardens. It was just magical. The phenomanal blend of music. The aura of it all. And how cool for Craig and me that we were "with the band" and so awfully proud of Dale and his musical talent.
In my picture box are photos of Dale and Carla's wedding. My most favorite being Dale grinning from ear to ear as he scoops up Carla (all four and a half feet of her) to carry her through the restaurant door to the decorated antique silver car to take off for their wedding night. He was quite tickled with himself and rightly so.
I count myself among the many that are proud to have known Dale.
Dave & Rhonda McMillin
August 20, 2008
Dear Carla and Family:
We are deeply saddened to hear of Dale's passing. We shared so many wonderful times together and I can't believe our musical brother and kindred spirit is no longer with us. John Skendall and I are still performing under the name of "McMillin & Life" and we often reminisce about Dale and the other members of the original band. No matter how hard we've tried over ther past 35 years we have never had a band as great as the original and Dale was a huge reason why!
John are I are planning a special tribute to Dale at our gig this weekend, and I will do my best to make sure all our other band mates are notified. I hope we can make contact with you someday and maybe share a few old stories of one of the finest musicians I've ever played with.
We extend our most heart felt sympathy to you and your daughters and if there is anything we can ever do for you, please do not hesitate to contact us. Peace be with you and Glory be to Dale in Heaven!
Love Dave and Rhonda
Al Lopus
August 19, 2008
Dear Skellie family, please know you have my sincere condolences. I just heard from my mother that Dale was ill, now this news. In the few moments I've had to process this news, I too feel like a part of me has died. Dale and I were best friends from 5th grade till we graduated from high school. I was just another part of the extended Skellie family for many of those years. He was a great friend and brings joy to my memory of those years. We spent countless hours together playing sports, being in the band, going to Church, substituing paper routes, liking the same girls, sharing our troubles, biking to his Uncles farm, going to parties, listening to the Inn-a-Gadda-Da-Vida drum solo, on and on. I still remember being in NYC and seeing him play with his group. We had good clean fun. Thanks Dale for being a great friend.
I haven't seen Dale since our 10th high school reunion (1980?), but the rich memories last. Dave, Craig, Karen, Carla you have my deepest sympathy. May God comfort you with His presence in your loss. I hope to catch up with you soon.
Al Lopus
Bob Luther
August 19, 2008
Carla & Family -
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your two beautiful daughters. In reading thru all these entries in your guest book, I see the exact same things I remember so well about Dale from working with him over 20 years ago. His tremendous work ethic, love of family and a great sense of humor. Do you remember the trip we won to Acapulco, Mexico ?? Every time I think about Dale, Tom Brown, Tony Diluzio and myself in four tiny speed boats attacking the Mexican Navy - I crack up !! He's given you so many wonderful gifts to remember him by. May all those great memories keep you warm and happy in the months that follow.
Best Regards,
Luke
Kara & Jeremy Bollinger
August 19, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Although I did not know Dale, Fran and David talked about him often. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
John & Doreen Carroll
August 19, 2008
We are saddened by this news and extend our sincere condolences to Carla, Devon, Deanna, Craig, Dave, Karen, and all Dale's family. We will always remember him as a great musician and a good friend. Keeping all of you in our prayers.
Alan and Kelly Mosko
August 19, 2008
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Steven Smith
August 19, 2008
Carla,
I am so sorry for your loss, It has been quite some time since I have seen Dale (GTE) being on the road with him and Tom Brown was one of the highlights of my career! He was an inspiration to me ,In fact he was instumental in getting me my Job at GTE Directories. I will never forget his smile and his wit, I too remember the Littles Angles Dance Group and marching down parade street.
I know in my heart Dale has an express ticket upstairs!
My deepest sympathy,
Steven W. Smith
David Suminski
August 19, 2008
Craig,.....
SIncere condolences on the passing of your brother.
Please let the memories you shared bring you comfort and guidance in the days ahead
.
Timothy Coughlin
August 19, 2008
Please let me extend my most sincere sympathies to everyone who are members of Dale's family. Dale and I, along with both of his brothers, were five of the estimated "zillion" kids that grew up in the Ardmore neighborhood in the 50's, 60's, and 70's. Dale was always, first and foremost, a "nice guy" which, at the end of the day, is one of the only few things that really matter in life. I didn't see much of Dale since childhood, but, when I did, there was always instant recognition of me, a genuine smile, a warm handshake, and a greeting by my name. He was a "first class guy".
Bob Sadowski
August 19, 2008
Dale and I were friends for 35 years, college roomates and fellow musicians in the Band "Saginaw" back in 1973 - 75. I have thought of him often. He was one of the finest people I have ever known and I share in your deep sense of loss.
Shana Stoller
August 18, 2008
Dale will be deeply missed. He was such an amazing person to have known. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.
Joe LaTona
August 18, 2008
I am very sorry for your loss. Please know that your family will remain in my thoughts & prayers.
Michelle (Ryan) Peeso
August 17, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I knew Dale many years ago, about 15, when I worked at Berry with him. He was always such a nice person. Blessings during this difficult time.
Heather Masters
August 17, 2008
Devon,
I am thinking and praying for you and your family at this difficult time. One day you will all be together again. Until then, hold on to the memories and love that you share. Find comfort in each other.
Much love and blessings,
Heather Masters
Valerie Bishop
August 17, 2008
Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Dale will be remembered as a hard worker and a husband and dad that LOVED his family VERY MUCH. He always had a way to make us all laugh even during the tough times.
Sincerely,
Valerie Bishop
Jeff, Kim and Taylor Connelly
August 17, 2008
We are so very sorry for your loss. You have been through so much in the last year, but remember that God will give you the strength to get through this. Please let us know if we can help.
Brian
August 17, 2008
Dale was one of the most hard working and dedicated people I have ever met. He always gave his best. He was a true example of great dedication and hard work. I'm sure this was also reflected in his home and personal life. Best wishes to Carla and his family.
Diana Gocal
August 17, 2008
We are so sorry for your loss. Your in our Hearts and Prayers.
Diana & Ted & Andy Gocal.
David Fresch
August 16, 2008
Dale was a pretty amazing person. I feel like a part of myself has been lost. I had the priviledge of growing up with Dale and his brothers and sister - both at church and in school. We had some pretty good times in the trombone section at McDowell, and later I had the opportunity to work with Dale at the VW dealership in Erie. He was a man of great intergrity, and one that loved his family and lived life to the fullest. We will all miss him.
Deborah Leuze
August 16, 2008
Dale was my dear friend. Even after i left rochester we talked all time. he was great with advice and i enjoyed working with him, and i enjoyed him as my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you Carla and the girls. Dale touched so many people with his wit and humor, but he was always there for his family and for his friends. I will miss him and his laugh and crazy little songs. I consider myself so fortunate to have met dale and met a big brother and dear friend.
Craig Skellie
August 16, 2008
Everyone needs to know a little more about Dale than the fact he was a salesman. He was born in Erie, Pa on March 28,1952, the second child(by only minutes) to Harrison and Mary Skellie. He was a really cool brother because he succeeded in everything he did in life. He was a normal kid growing up playing high school basketball and little league baseball,delivering newspapers and mowing lawns.Around seventh grade he picked up a trombone and decided he was going to learn how to play it. For month's the family was tortured by an awful noise coming from the basement but it wasn't too much time before the noise actually changed to music. After graduating from Mcdowell High School he attended Edinboro University of Pennsylvania as a music major. He then entertained the local area with some "other guys" forming the musical group "McMillan and Life". They were very popular in our area but that wasn't what the group wanted, sooo they went to New York City to cut a record. Can't tell you how many copies are out there but I have mine. After time the guys began settling down and Dale met Carla. We first met her as she paraded down W 12th street in a Fourth of July parade. All the girls in the dance group were gorgeous but there was one with a particular sparkle in her eye that was looking toward Dale, David and I.Through elimination Dale was the clear winner having Carla in his heart until his death. Soon two additions entered their lives and their family was complete. Dale never expressed ill feelings toward anyone and was always the rational sibling if I had questions. Fortunately I never had to listen to his sales pitch but I do have a lifetime of memories. He fought the battle fiercely never giving in to his untimely death. His sense of humor never diminished so now Helen,Carl, Hap and Mary along with others that have passed before us can enjoy his company. I will miss you terribly but I rest assured knowing that we will meet again. Love Always,
Craig(your baby brother)
John & Jackie Smith, Carnival Supplies & Rentals
August 16, 2008
Dale was a wonderful man to work with. He was friendly, relaxed and understanding of our needs. We looked forward to his calls. What mattered the most was that we could trust him with the most important part of our business- bringing in business. Although we only saw him once a year, it seemed like he was part of our company family. He leaves very big shoes to fill in a world where it is hard to trust anyone. His success in a field he obviously loved, makes us feel proud and fortunate to have worked with him. Our prayers are with you, and he will forever be remembered as our friend and as part of the success of our small business.
Kathy Rider
August 16, 2008
Devon
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. If there is anything I can do please let me know. My prayers are with you.
Kathy
Paul and Heather Jones
August 16, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Many great memories will help you through this time. Dale was always so passionate about life and you always knew how much he loved his family-
Jennifer Becker
August 16, 2008
Lean on your family and friends for strength, and always remember how much you are cared about. Although it's difficult today to see beyond your pain, may your memories give you strength to help comfort you tomorrow.
Love, Jen
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