Thomas M. Skell

Following a seven-year battle with cancer, Tom Skell passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2005 at the age of 56. He died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Tom was born in Appleton on July 2, 1949, son of the late Martin and Esther Skell. From the age of eighteen, he had been employed by the Kimberly Mill, and retired only four years ago. Tom enjoyed flying model airplanes, hunting and fishing at his cabin near Florence, and the companionship of his dog, Ice. Many will remember how proud he was to be seen around town in his yellow convertible – a car he had waited years to own. His three grandsons held a special place in Tom’s heart, and they will miss him very much.

Tom is survived by his daughter: Amy (Tim) VanderHyden of Combined Locks; three grandsons: Nick, Travis, and Zach; a brother: Dan (Connie) Skell of Hartford; a sister: Mary Jane (Ken) Grissman of Freedom; as well as by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and by a brother: Maurey (Peg) Skell.

The funeral liturgy for Tom will be held at 6:00 PM on Monday, November 21, 2005 at HOLY SPIRIT PARISH – KIMBERLY CAMPUS, 600 E. Kimberly Avenue, with Fr. David Funk, OFM Cap. officiating. Friends may call directly at the church on Monday from 3:00 PM until the hour of the service.

The family would like to extend their thanks to family friends Scott and Judy for caring for Ice, as well as to the entire staff at the Appleton Medical Center ICU: you are all such very special people; we saw that in the way that you cared for dad during his stay. Thank you so much for your kindness.

Dad,

They said that the cancer would cut short your years,

So we watched as you battled while showing no fear.

For seven hard years you fought the good fight,

And now you're surrounded by heaven's warm light.

Some might say that your battle was lost,

But a winner shines through, no matter the cost.

Though it hurts us so to say goodbye

We know that on angels' wings you'll fly

To Jesus' side, safe and sound,

You're free from pain – it's peace you've found.

We'll miss you dad, and we love you so

Rest now in peace, as heavenward you go.

We love you,
Amy, Tim, Nick, Trav, & Zach

Jansen Fargo Funeral Home
204 E. Kimberly Avenue
Kimberly, WI 54136
920-788-6202