Shirley Thomas (S.T.) Skidmore 1918 - 2005

SKIDMORE, MILLER

Posted By: Connie Swearingen-volunteer (email)
Date: 1/17/2017 at 10:46:01

Onawa Sentinel
8 September 2005

Shirley Thomas (S.T.) Skidmore, 86, of Whiting died Saturday, August 27, 2005 at Pleasant View Care Center in Whiting, Iowa.

Shirley was born November 13, 1918 in Whiting the son of Benjamin and Blanche Skidmore. After graduating from Whiting High School in 1937, he began a farming career that extended over forty years. In 1941, Shirley entered the United States Army as an infantryman and eventually earned the rank of Staff Sergeant during four highly decorated years of service to his country during World War II. He earned "two bronze stars for valor while serving in the Luzon and New Guniea campaigns in the Pacific Theater.

After, the war, Shirley returned home "to Whiting and married Phyllis Miller on June 2, 1946. That same year, he built the house that he had shared with Phyllis and their family for the past 59 years. Shirley was an active community member throughout his life, serving for several years as a deacon and trustee at the Whiting Christian Church, as a representative on the Whiting Town Council, and as a member of the American Legion Post 481, where he was recognized for 60 years of service this spring.

After retiring from farming, Shirley enjoyed taking summer vacations, gardening, woodworking, following the news, and spending holidays and other special occasions with his family. He leaves his family and community an example of strong character and Christian service.

Shirley is, survived by his wife Phyllis, his loving companion of 59 years, a sister, Esther Thielman of Loveland, CO, and a brother Ben Skidmore and his wife Lola of Sioux Falls, SD. Shirley is also survived by three children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. They include daughters Linda Robinson and her husband Harold of Nebraska City, N E, Sharon Thelander and her husband Byron of Onawa, and Nancy Dumas and 'her husband Lynn of Sioux City. Grandchildren include Jeff Thelander and his wife Beth of Lawton, IA, Brian Dumas and his wife, Jennifer of Davenport, IA, Lori Steffen and her husband Jay of Sioux City, and Shelley Kranz and her husband Jeff of Ames. Great-grandchildren include Benjamin and Joseph Thelander and Jack and Lily Dumas.

Shirley was preceded in death by his parents and a younger brother, Robert. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at Whiting Christian Church, Whiting, Iowa with Rusty Hedger, Minister officiating. Music selections were "It Is Well With My Soul" provided by Adair Kaehlar and "Legacy" provided by Richard Anderson. Nancy Brenden was organist. Burial was in Whiting Cemetery with military honors conducted by Emery Johnson Post #481 American Legion, Whiting. Visitation was held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the church with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service. Arrangements were under the direction of Rush Family Care Service, Onawa, Iowa.

Casket bearers were Jeff Thelander, Brian Dumas, Jay Steffen, Jeff Kranz, Matt Miller and Tom Miller.