Lori Skov

In Loving Memory of Lori Wike Skov

Our sweet mama entered into eternal rest on a beautifully warm Sunday morning, June 8, 2025.

Lauren Lee Wike Skov lived a life of generosity, resilience, and unwavering devotion to the people she cherished. Born to Richard and Virginia (Alexander) Wike on July 7, 1954, in Billings, Montana. She embraced each chapter of her journey with warmth and determination. From her childhood in Oceanside, CA, her formative years in Toppenish, WA, and her summers in Bozeman, Montana with her dad and stepmom Sharon. Lori built strong bonds with her siblings, making lifelong memories that shaped the compassionate woman she became.

Her path took her through ITT Business School in Seattle, where she experienced the thrill of city life with her closest friend, Carol. She then moved to Montana and attended Montana Vo-Tec. There she made many lifelong friends and met and married Richard Skov. After their marriage they were offered the opportunity to live in and operate The Last Resort in Ronald, Washington. They had their daughter Kayse in 1980 and their son Ian in 1984 and later bought their family home in Cle Elum. Lori worked at Shoemaker's, Safeway, ran a daycare in her home, worked for Head Start, drove school bus, owned The Caboose tavern, opened a restaurant Poor Sisters Café, and ran the dining services for Dry Creek assisted living. However, her most profound impact came in her role at the FISH food bank, where she tirelessly worked to ensure that families in need had access to nourishing meals. She started her 15-year journey at Fish as a cook and Kitchen manager. When Fish started Open Table, it's food service division, she started Meals on Wheels and the Senior Congregate Lunch program. As that program grew, she became the Site Supervisor for the Cle Elum and Ellensburg lunch sites.

Lori's work reflected her spirit. She wore many hats, each one a testament to her dedication. Her commitment to serving others helped expand the program, leaving a legacy of kindness that will live on in the communities of Cle Elum and Ellensburg.

Lori was more than the sum of her roles she was a guiding light to many. Her presence, humor, and unwavering support touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we celebrate her life, we honor the lessons she taught us: to work hard, to care deeply, and to always give with an open heart.

She will be deeply missed, but her kindness, strength, and love will forever endure in the hearts of those she touched.

Lori is survived by her daughter Kayse (Greg) Bruno and son Ian Skov, her beloved grandchildren Brenna and Kai Styler, Spencer Bruno, Kamryne (David) Smith-Bruno, Brothers Rob and Scott Daviston, Sisters Julie (Jason) Patel, Cheri Oberholtzer, and Erin Burch.

Preceded in death by her, Mother Virginia Besel, Father Richard (Sharon) Wike Sr., Husband Richard Skov, Sister LuAnne Wike, Brother Richard Wike Jr. and Nephew Zackery Davidson.

The memorial celebration will be at Ellensburg fairgrounds in the Armory building on July 5th starting at 11:00 A.M. *Potluck. Please bring your favorite dish!