Lubbock- Robert Stuart Skibell (Bobby) passed away peacefully at home on April 7, 2019. Services were held on April 9, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. Congregation Shaareth Israel with Jonathan Marks officiating. Burial followed at Lubbock Cemetery under the direction of Sanders Funeral Home.

The eldest son of Albert & Norma Skibell, he was born on August 10, 1942, in Greenville, Texas. In 1944 the family moved to Lubbock to open Albert's and then Skibell's. Bobby graduated from Monterey High School in 1961 and graduated from the University of Texas in 1966. He was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Mu where he served as Social Chairman. After graduation he joined the Army National Guard and then moved to Dallas to pursue a career as a stock broker.

Bobby's true calling was in the restaurant business. In 1976 he returned to Lubbock and opened Gardski's Loft on Broadway. Gardski's became a Lubbock tradition, growing to 9 locations. He joined with partners to open Wild Burger Grill. As a life long member of Congregation Shaareth Israel, he served on the board. Bobby belonged to MENSA and served on the board of the Lubbock Heritage Society.

Preceded in death by his parents Albert and Norma Skibell, he is survived by his devoted wife Jane Ann Skibell, stepson Rudi Grub, brothers Jerry Skibell and wife Joan, Charles Skibell and wife Sherril, Sam Skibell, two nieces and three nephews. Bobby was both cherished by his large extended family and he cherished his countless friends.

He is remembered for his love of life and determination to keep moving forward with a smile on his face regardless of what challenges he faced.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Congregation Shaareth Israel or the Culinary & Hospitality program at Texas Tech University.

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

Published by Lubbock Avalanche-Journal from Apr. 9 to Apr. 18, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Skibell

Sponsored by Lubbock Avalanche-Journal.

12 Entries

Nancy Salazar

April 17, 2019

Charles, I'm so sorry for your loss. Always remember you and your family. Peace be with you.

Glen Townsend

April 16, 2019

Good memories from years ago, of Bobby, Jerry, Sammy and Ruth. God bless and keep him. Our condolences go to the family in their loss. Glen TownsendKZ4S6

David Frazier

April 10, 2019

I have known Bobby since Gardski's Loft opened in the 70"s. He was my friend and competitor in the restaurant business. we had many fun times outside the business and I very much enjoyed his wit and stories. I also believe that he was a pretty good artist. I will remember Bobby as a classy good looking guy with always a great big smile. Great guy Bobby, RIP.

Mollie Robins

April 10, 2019

Charles, I am sorry for your loss. I carry your family in my heart, always.

Josue Silva

April 10, 2019

Bob and I became friends and will miss him. RIP

Jill Hinckley

April 9, 2019

I am sad today to hear the news. It was a privilege to work for Bobby Skibell at Gardski's Loft as a waitress during college and I had the opportunity to paint with him years later. I am sad to hear of his death, but know that he had a life well-lived. May his family find comfort and peace in their memories of him.

Cheryl Stephenson

April 9, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

April 9, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Bobby was a joy to know. He will be missed by many.

Annette Rosen

April 9, 2019

From Lew and Laura Richey. Laura and I sincerely regret our inability to attend the service. Please accept our most sincere condolences on the loss of a very special Friend, and family member. Our memories of Bobby go back to 1971, when he introduced Lew to Laura via a blind date. He was the best man at our wedding and we are about to celebrate our Forty seventh anniversary. As one who makes avoiding debt a constant goal, I must admit I am forever indebted to Bobby for making the most valuable introduction in my life. Our thoughts and prayers are with each and all of you. Lew and Laura RIchey

Leslie Skibell

April 9, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of loss. Bobby you will be missed. Thanks for the memories.

Michael Levenson

April 9, 2019

Sending our love to Bobby's family.
We were all deeply saddened to learn of Bobby's passing. He was an amazing son to Albert and Norma and a wonderfully loved brother, husband, step-father, uncle and a great friend to countless people. He always super cool, handsome, creative, very much loved his family. Bobby left his mark on Lubbock and is a piece of local history.
He will be missed and always remembered by all those who knew him. May God send His blessings and comfort Bobby's family and friends.
Rest in Peace Bobby
Our love to you, The Levenson family

Eda Harman

April 9, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Jane Ann. He suffers no more. I know God will comfort you and bring you peace. All my love, Eda

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