Joseph Skarbek

1914 - 2008

Joseph Skarbek, 94, of Roanoke, passed away Wednesday morning, November 5, 2008. Joe was born in Newark, New Jersey, on July 30, 1914, a son of the late Frank and Victoria Indyk Skarbek. Joe began his work experience at age 14 as a runner on Wall Street. When he learned of the impending crash, Joe was fortunate enough to obtain employment in a cannery in New York City. He remained employed throughout the Depression, attending college at night. Through perseverance and determination Joe graduated from New York University in the top 10 of his class (cum laude) in 1955. Joe moved to Roanoke from Pennsylvania and became employed at Rowe Furniture Company in Salem, Va. He started as an accountant and retired in 1984 as Corporate Secretary. Joe was a very dedicated and loyal employee for 29 years. After retiring he enjoyed many years of bowling with the Happy Bowlers League at Viking and Vinton Bowling. Joe was also an avid fisherman. He had a strong desire to learn, so at an early age he became an avid reader, which continued throughout his life. Joe was an intellectual, very knowledgeable about history, geography, business, politics and numerous other subjects. Joe was a member of long-standing with the National Association of Accountants. He was predeceased by his first wife and mother of his children, Georgianna Skarbek; and a daughter, Joanne Miller; also four brothers, Walter, Ed, Stanley and Henry Skarbek; one sister, Nancy McGarry. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted and caring wife of 24 years, Carol; a son, Jim (Debbie), of Moneta; granddaughter, Kimberly (Tray) Thomas, of Gerardstown, W.Va.; Matthew Skarbek, of Harpers Ferry, W.Va.; six great-grandchildren, Joelle Thomas, Lauren, Brooks and Graham Skarbek, Alex Skarbek and Jonas Skarbek; favorite brother-in-law and fishing buddy, Leonard Stiff; sister-in-law and brother-inlaw, Betsy and Cletis Richard; granddaughter-in-law, Barbara Skarbek, of Columbia, S.C.; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2008, at Oakey's South Chapel, 4257 Brambleton Avenue, S.W. Funeral services will be conducted 10 a.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008, in the chapel with the Rev. Curtis Nester officiating. Joe will be laid to rest in Ross Cemetery, Craig County, in the beautiful countryside he enjoyed so much. In lieu of flowers, it is the wish of Joe and Carol that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, 2840 Electric Road, Roanoke, Va. 24018.