Wayne Skinner

Wayne Skinner, 94, of Julesburg, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Sedgwick County Health Center.

Wayne was born on January 4, 1931, north of Julesburg, to George Roswell and Emma Mae (Putnam) Skinner.

Wayne married Beverly Elmquist on January 26, 1951, and together, they shared 74 years and were blessed with two children, Julie and Janet. In February of that same year, Wayne was drafted into the US Army, serving in Cavalry in Korea and Japan under the Ordnance Division. On February 13, 1953, Wayne received his honorable discharge after earning the rank of Sergeant.

Upon returning to Julesburg, Wayne worked for Thrasher Motors as a body and fender man, which he did for about 8 years. Wayne finished his career with Daphne Davis when she eventually closed the garage. In his later years, Wayne worked at the mortuary, spending ten years with the Tennants.

Wayne enjoyed bowling and had participated in league play for nearly 40 years. He was a gifted woodworker and made several pieces of furniture over the years. A special highlight came in September of 2011, when he and his brother Doyle (who also served in Korea) took the honor flight to Washington, DC.

Wayne was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Julesburg, where he'd served as a Trustee for many years and an usher until only recently, when his health would no longer allow.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Doyle; a brother-in-law; and two sisters-in-law.

Survivors include his wife of 74 years, Bev of Julesburg; daughters, Julie Gonzales of Cortez and Janet (Craig) Kingsbury of Julesburg; five grandchildren, Chris Donnelly of Cortez, Tina Kibel of Cortez, Nathan (Nina) Kingsbury of Greeley, Lindy (Brett) Foley of Lincoln, NE, Melissa (Josh) Yoakum of Cortez; 6 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter; sister, Marlene (Bob) Yates of Longmont; brother, George Skinner of Albuquerque, NM; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church in Julesburg in Wayne's memory. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsjulesburg.com.

Visitation will be on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 2 to 6 pm at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home Chapel in Julesburg.

Services will be on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 10:00 am at the United Methodist Church in Julesburg with Pastor Aaron McClellan officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at the Hillside Cemetery in Julesburg.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Julesburg is in charge of arrangements.