John Skold

1939 - 2025

John Skold

January 24, 1939 - August 19, 2025

John Otto Skold, 86, passed surrounded by family on August 19, 2025. John was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on January 24, 1939, to Otto Ernest Skold and Lillian Carolina Aspegren.

Growing up in Lincoln, John enjoyed Boy Scouts, worked for the family lumber businesses, and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1957. He was a member of the LHS Boys Octet and attended St. Paul Methodist with his mother. John graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1963 majoring in Business Administration. A lifelong Husker, he followed the teams passionately.

At age 16, John began his career at the Nebraska State Fair where he met his wife Virginia. Over 44 years he worked his way up the ranks from the grounds crew to General Manager. John loved how the fair united the state for 11 days each year, the tradition of seeing old friends and things and meeting and seeing new ones. From backstage to the boardroom, he understood the Fair inside and out. Known for his integrity, kindness, and firm handshake, John worked with agents, lawyers, and legislators. But he was a true fan and friend of the stagehands, office and grounds crew, painters, and plumbers. He deeply appreciated the people behind-the-scenes who make everything possible.

Rather than residing on the fairgrounds, John and Virginia built their dream house outside of Lincoln's city limits in 1968, the first house designed by two young architects in a small neighborhood started by a pioneering developer. They laid a foundation of family, friends, and neighbors that lasted a lifetime. There was no better place to be.

After retiring in 2001, John tended to home projects and business interests. A lover of trees, all animals and an avid reader, he shared special books and thoughtful cards. He encouraged his grandchildren to pursue their interests and could be seen at all of their activities. John pursued his own dream of flying and trained as a pilot. He also loved cars and driving, completing road trips in a Porsche convertible to Mexico and in an Oldsmobile to Alaska. He and Virginia visited Spain and Italy together and took their family on memorable trips around the U.S. John left a legacy of generosity and humility.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Virginia (Wadhams); daughter, Stacey Skold (Mark Hutchings) of Malcom, Nebraska; son, Jason (Sinaro Reang Skold) of Lincoln, Nebraska; and five grandchildren, Halsten Hutchings, Hathaway Hutchings, Lydia Skold, Carolyn Skold, and Max Skold. He was preceded in death by sister, Carolyn Liotto Skold; father, Otto; and mother, Lillian.

A celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 6th, at 11 a.m. at Butherus, Maser & Love Mortuary, 4040 A Street. In lieu of flowers, memorials to The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum.

Condolences can be shared online at, www.bmlfh.com.