Jack E. Skinner

1944 - 2025

Skinner, Jack E.

Of Grand Island passed away in the McAuley Residence, Kenmore, NY, under the excellent care of Hospice after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 23, 1944, in Columbus, OH, to Norman and Phyllis (Kenney) Skinner. He is survived by his wife Marjorie (Ruslink) Skinner of 55 years. He is also survived by Carol Ruslink (Rob) Glasier. Additionally survived by nieces and nephews, Dawn (Tom) Kaliszewski, Kathy Deist, Scott (Christine) Ward, Brian (Lea) Meade, Stephen (SarahBeth) Glasier, Christin Glasier, Alison Meade, and Corey (Cynthia) Ruslink. Also survived by great-nieces and nephews. He maintained connections with his cousins even though they all lived many miles away. Jack and Marge were blessed with the best neighbors the O'Donnells and Runicks. In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by Ruslink sibs, Donna (late Jack) Deck, Bill (late Sherry) Ruslink and Nancy (late Bill) Meade. Jack was a proud graduate of Chautauqua Central School, and enjoyed reunions. Although he was a self-proclaimed Bench Warmer on the CCS basketball team, Jack made solid connections with Niagara University Men's Basketball team members that have remained for decades and with the "adopted" guys that accompanied Jack and Marge to the games. Jack was a voracious reader which made him everyone's selection for their team of Trivial Pursuit. Jack and Marge relished time on Cape Cod in a cottage his uncle built. Growing up on Chautauqua Lake, Jack showed an early interest in nature. He was shaped by a bird guide gifted by Aunt Nannie. Jack enjoyed and was valued at several nature societies including the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage, having served as chair, attending for more than 40 years. He found Owl Prowl, Bugs at Night, and Bird Banding to be especially interesting. His interest in music ranged from Bob Dylan to the Buffalo Philharmonic. Jack spent almost as much time looking skyward as he did with nature, and found the study of space to be fascinating. Jack followed his father's military calling, and spent 37+ years with the United States Air Force. He visited over 60 countries and 49 states. Jack considered it a privilege to serve with the 914th Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station with men and women of integrity who prioritized life and liberty. Jack was blessed to accompany the Honor Flight to Washington June '24. He was a member of the Grand Island American Legion, St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aero Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Audubon, Buffalo Geological Society, nature clubs in person and online, and a life member of Mayville VFW. He was a Pheresis blood donor. Jack was a good man, a man of quiet, strong faith, a loving husband, kind neighbor, and friend. Memorials can be designated to St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aero Club of Buffalo, Buffalo Audubon, Hospice Buffalo or charity of your choice. Calling Hours are Friday, January 31st from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. Funeral will be Saturday February 1st at 11 a.m. at St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd, Grand Island. Share condolences at kaiserfuneral.com.