James R. Skotnicki

James R. Skotnicki, 63, of Salcha, Alaska, formerly of Canonsburg, passed away peacefully November 25, 2020. His beloved wife of 40 years, Debbie was at his side, as were his beagles, Bert and Rosie. He was born June 20, 1957, in Homestead, to Evelyn Allas Skotnicki, who survives, and the late Stanley R. Skotnicki, of Canonsburg.

He was a 1975 graduate of Canon-McMillan High School.

On June 1, 1980, he married his high school sweetheart, Debbie Thompson, formerly of Eighty Four, who survives. Amanda was born in England, in 1985. Christopher was born in Goldsboro, N.C. in 1990. Jim was so proud of the adults they have become. He was a proud dad and grandpa.

Jim touched many lives and made many memories during his 26-year U.S. Air Force career. He attended the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. in 1976, graduating in 1980. He loved flying, earning many awards and accolades. Jim was a T-38 instructor pilot, flew both the F-4 and F-111, and his aviation career culminated with his favorite aircraft, the mighty A-10. This wide-reaching career enabled him and his family to see many parts of the world. Upon his retirement from the Air Force in 2006, he and Deb settled in Salcha, Alask., where they constructed their log cabin dream home. Jim and Deb then began a highly successful stained glass business. Jim leveraged his talent as a master designer to imagine and bring to life custom designs that currently grace many homes and businesses in the area. In their spare time, Jim and Deb continued to serve the community, volunteering with Salcha Fire and Rescue Department as EMTs and firemen. Jim also stepped up and served as chief and fire chief for one year.

Jim loved everything about Alaska. When Jim and Deb first set foot in the state, they immediately concluded that they had found their forever home. Jim loved everything about Alaska and their adventures made many memories. Boating and fishing in Valdez. Hunting camp in the middle of nowhere. Hiking. Snowshoeing and walking his beloved beagles on their land. Snow machining with his son and wife. He remained a Steelers fan throughout his life.

In addition to his beloved wife Debbie Skotnicki and his caring mother Evelyn Skotnicki, he is survived by his adoring children, Amanda (Matt) Nelson of Slidell, Louisiana and Christopher of Anchorage, Alaska. He was a devoted grandpa to Teagan and Ethan Nelson of Slidell who meant the world to him. He will be greatly missed by his sister, Vicki (Stan) Whited of Canonsburg; nephews, Stanley and Cody Whited; his father-in-law, Ron Thompson of Vermont; plus numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. His beagles, Bert and Rosie were his constant companions and miss him tremendously.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his father, are brother, Joseph Skotnicki; maternal grandparents, John and Helen Wavro Allas; paternal grandparents, Valentine and Sophie Skotnicki; and his mother-in-law, Louise Thompson.

Jim's last request was that he be cremated and his ashes scattered in the places he loved the most. In the spring of 2021, we will honor his wish and celebrate his life with a ride high up into the Hoo Doo mountains of Alaska, where Jim and his son, Chris loved to snow machine. In the summer of 2021, we will journey to Valdez where the rest of his ashes will be spread into the bay. Jim will then be able to forever enjoy his favorite passions, the majesty of the mountains and the cool blue water.

We will miss Jim's smile and positive attitude. You will always be in our hearts. Jim accepted his fate and told all that he had filled his bucket list. Something a lot of people cannot say. He lived life to the fullest.

Condolences may be made to the family at Blanchardfamilyfuneralhome.com.