Howard Lawrence "Howie" Skolnik

Howard "Howie" Lawrence Skolnik, 81, passed away on January 21, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada; beloved husband of the late Gail Skolnik, with whom he shared 45 wonderful years of marriage. He was a devoted and loving father to Stacey (the late Ben) Lazer, Jeff Skolnik, and Rachael (Dave) Bonaiuto; cherished grandpa (Papa) to Joey, Gabrielle, Jazmyne, and Samantha Lazer; Jack, Charlie, and Sadie Skolnik; and Rafael and Anya Bonaiuto; a much-loved brother of David Skolnik, the late Chet Skolnik, and the late Paula Skolnik Goddard; and a dear friend to many. Howard was a deeply work-focused and driven individual, dedicating 45 years of service to the Ohio, Illinois, and Nevada Departments of Corrections, proudly retiring in the position of Director. Even after officially retiring, Howard never truly stopped working in Corrections, beginning a second stage of his career as a corrections consultant, staying active and engaged in the field. An avid runner, Howard completed several full and half marathons over the years. He and his beloved Gail remained socially active within their community, enjoying art festivals and spending treasured time in Colorado. After Gail's passing, Howard continued volunteering with Meals on Wheels, staying connected with friends and neighbors, and delighting in any opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren. Howard was passionate about his profession and authored several articles, as well as a self-published autobiography focused on the prison system. Above all else, his greatest joy came from spending time with Gail, who meant the world to him.

Memorial donations in his honor may be made to: American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/donate or Meals on Wheels America, www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/donate

Chapel service, Thursday, January 29, 2026; 2:30 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, Illinois. Interment to follow at Shalom Memorial Park. For the link to view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.or or (847) 255-3520.