Thomas Giles Skilling

On Monday, August 29, 2022, Thomas Giles Skilling, loving husband, and father of four children, passed away at his home, where he was cared for by his wife Mimi and the invaluable care of Avow Hospice.
Tom was born in Ithaca, NY to Samuel and Winifred Skilling. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs in 1961 and flew C130's during the Vietnam War era. Tom continued his love for flying as a pilot and instructor for United Airlines for 30 years. During that time, he owned a dry cleaner and medical supply company, while also volunteering as a paramedic for the Hudson, Ohio Emergency Squad. On March 12, 1983, he married Mimi Watt, the love of his life. They combined their families loving two sons, Jeffery, and Gregory, and two daughters, Robin, and Lisa.
Tom found great passion in cooking and creating space for friends and family to enjoy one another through food. In his retirement years, he and Mimi combined their skills to open a restaurant in Cape Cod, MA and with great success nurtured all those who entered The Chatham Cafe. His grandchildren still savor the sweetness of his french toast. Tom could always find a joke to break an awkward silence and his smile and laughter will be remembered always.
Tom was preceded in death by his father, Samuel, his mother, Winifred, his brother-in law Karl, and his son Jeff. He is survived by his wife Mimi, his three children, Gregory, Robin, and Lisa, his seven grandchildren, his sister Patricia Kellerman, her children David and Karen, and their families.
A celebration of life will be held, at Vanderbilt Country Club on Saturday, September 17th, 2022, at 2 o'clock p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Avow Hospice in Naples, FL in Tom's name to honor the beautiful team that cared for him. www.Avowcares.org