John Michael Skeens

1971 - 2021

John Michael Skeens, age 50, of Monroe, passed away after his battle with cancer the afternoon on Sunday, March 21, 2021, under home hospice care, surrounded by his loving family.

Born January 12, 1971, in Monroe. He was one of four children of the late John Skeens and Nola Shukait. John graduated from Monroe High School in 1989. After graduating, he was a part of the class reunion committee. He was even the co-chairperson of his 30th class reunion. John continued his education at Eastern University, where he got his master's degree in history.

John made a living working at Lakewood Machine Products in Carleton. He was a Machine Operator there for 10 years. John was a huge history enthusiast; it was his life. He worked at the Monroe County Museum, City of Troy's Historical Society, and Providence Metro Park Society in Grand Rapids, OH. John also ran the Monroe County time capsule.

John married Christine Kregel on June 14, 1997. They spent eight years together and helped him raise his three children. He was always active in his children's lives; from coaching their soccer leagues, to watching their sports events, and helping at the Monroe County 4-H Program.

In his free time, you could find John having fun with his friends, like their trips to Cancun, Mexico. He enjoyed reading, music, and movies. He had a full collection of his favorite books and movies from history to science fiction genres. John also liked to go to any state park, like visit the sand dunes at Silver Lake. John liked to watch sport. He would root on the Toledo Mud Hens and Toledo Walleye teams as well as the Detroit Lions Football team.

Most importantly, he liked spending his quality time with his friends and family. John will be remembered for his funny personality and sense of humor. He was well known and loved by each person he met. He was an extremely hard worker who was selfless and would give his shirt off his back to help anyone in need. John will be deeply missed and cherished in the hearts of his loved ones.

Beloved father of Josh Skeens, Jacob Skeens and Jessica Skeens. Loving grandfather of Nova Skeens. Dearest brother of Lee (Gail) Shukait, Linda (Loraine) Shukait, and Robin Shukait. John is also survived by many close friends. Preceded in death by his parents: John Skeens and Nola Shukait.

Everyone is invited to a visitation on Friday, March 26, 2021, at Rupp Funeral Home from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. A private funeral service will take place for family only. Officiating is Rev. Cindy Semran. Burial will follow to LaSalle Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of John are suggested towards the Skeens family.

Online condolences and words of comfort may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com.