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Thomas Skinker Obituary

Thomas Murray Skinker 86, born March 21, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY, died April 16, 2014. Survived by wife of 56 years, Joan; daughter, Linda Skinker (Andy Gilmour); daughter, Peggy (Derek) Colsman; daughter, Donna (Charlie) Singleton; and grandchildren, David Colsman, Lara Colsman, Emily Singleton and Alex Singleton. Preceded in death by brother, Nick Skinker. Tom graduated from Alfred University in 1952 and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1956. Tom met Joan while an intern at Riverside Osteopathic Hospital in Trenton, Michigan, where Joan was a nurse. They were married on April 27, 1957. Because of glowing accounts of life in Tucson from Tom's college roommate, he moved his pregnant wife and two young daughters to the desert, sight unseen, and began a private practice in family medicine. Tom was an avid hunter, fisherman, four wheel drive explorer, hiker and camper. He loved working on cars, photography and exploring the beauty and history of the West. After early retirement in 1985, Tom and Joan enjoyed many years of RVing and international travel. Worsening Alzheimer's disease kept him home the last 10 years, but he was a gentleman to the end. May he rest in peace. Memorial Service to be private, donations may be made to the Tucson Community Food Bank in his memory. Arrangements by U OF A ANATOMICAL PROGRAM.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Apr. 19, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Skinker

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Scott Lucas

May 11, 2014

I always had great respect a special place in my heart for "Doc Skinker" as did many of our neighbors on Blue Lake and in Indian Ridge. My thoughts and prayers are you during this trying time.

Thomas McWilliams

May 3, 2014

Joan and Family,
You are in our prayers. I have many fond memories of time spent with Tom.

Oliver Shelksohn, D.O.

May 2, 2014

I met TOM when I started practice in 1979. He was always smiling and truly enjoyed the practice of medicine. My wife and I had many good memories with TOM and Joan and some good times at Lil Abners dancing and having good food with Dean Armstrong and his wife. May God rest his sole. He was a good man and an excellent physician
Husband and father.

David Edgar

April 23, 2014

I am Paul Edgar's youngest son and remember Dr. Skinker as a fine man and doctor. May you continue to have fond memories of him for the rest of your lives; especially now as you mourn his passing.

April 20, 2014

We have so many wonderful memories of visits in AZ, MI, & DC.
We will all miss Uncle Tom, and wish we could be there with you.
Deepest Sympathy and love, Paula & Wally

Donna and Maury Johnson

April 20, 2014

Dear Linda, Our sincere sympathy to you and your family in the passing of your dad.

David Smith

April 19, 2014

I first met Dr Skinker as a kid. He was just new to town, working with Dr Sherman Peterson, DO. Giving me an allergy shot, the needle broke. But, in spite of that first encounter, Dr Skinker became our family physician. His approach was not just medical, he cared for the whole being, wanting updates on family, career, etc. A very nice man.

June Sewell

April 19, 2014

Tom, will be missed by so many friends, patients and his love ones.
May God bless his family during this time.

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