Joseph C. Skaggs

Joseph C. Skaggs, 83, of Howe, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Parkview LaGrange Hospital.
Joe was born on July 4, 1942, in Imperial, Pennsylvania, to the late Robert "Bob" and Mary (Cramblett) Skaggs. His Independence Day birthday was fitting for a man known for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and steady presence in the lives of those who loved him.
A dairyman at heart, Joe had a lifelong passion for raising Guernsey cattle and spent much of his life working on farms he loved. Over the years, he worked at several agricultural operations including Leafy Lane Farms in Kokomo, IN, and Maurana Farm in Wakarusa, IN. Beyond farming, Joe also served as plant manager at Vahala and Co. in Shipshewana, and later drove semi-trucks for Indian Prairie Materials in Middlebury and Paxco, Inc. in Mottville, MI.
On November 5, 1961, Joe married Marilyn Louthain at Shiloh Methodist Church in Kokomo, IN. They shared 63 years of life together, rooted in faith, family, and mutual devotion. Marilyn survives in Howe, IN.
Joe found his greatest joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether cheering them on at sporting events or simply offering his calm and loving presence, he remained a steady source of support, encouragement, and pride.
He and Marilyn were longtime members of Berea Missionary Church and more recently attended Shipshewana Church of the Nazarene, where they nurtured their faith and community.
In addition to his wife, Joe is survived by three children: Leann (Darrell) Bachmann of Piedmont, SD; Lisa Burkey of Howe, IN; and Landis (Shawn) Skaggs of Nappanee, IN. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Macee (Nick) Stocker, Mandee (Caleb) Moeller, Micah (Courtney) Burkey, Matthew Burkey, Nathaniel Burkey, Micaiah (Lindsay) Burkey, Asa (Kayla) Skaggs, and Aria (Dan) Chereshnevskiy. He is also lovingly remembered by 14 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.
Family and friends may call on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 West Michigan Street, LaGrange, IN. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m., with Geff Fisher officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Samaritan's Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or https://www.samaritanspurse.org/