David Jonathon Skinner of Reading, MA, passed peacefully on December 24th, 2020. He was 82. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol Ann Durell Skinner, whom he met on a blind date. Together they have 8 children. Craig, Heidi, Robert, Adam, Alyson, Joshua, Amanda, and Ashley. Collectively he had 22 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.
David was born in Reading, MA to William Skinner and Vera Davidson Skinner. He was one of nine children. David was predeceased by his son, Craig, his grandson Ammon, as well as both of his parents William and Vera, his sisters, Alma Gardner, Nancy Skinner, and his brother William “Bill” Skinner.
He graduated from Reading High School and went on to further his education at Wentworth Institute of Technology with a degree in Building Construction Technology. While at Wentworth, he was elected President of his class and went on to raise more donations for his graduating class than any previous Class President.
David was a self-employed Custom Builder and Remodeler of Residential Homes, throughout Boston’s North Shore. Most notably was his remodeling and upgrading of an old barn, located in Reading MA, which was uninhabitable when he first bought it in 1971 and quickly turned into a beautiful home for his family. A home, which later would be the subject of a local news station mini-documentary. To David, Carol, Craig, Heidi, and Robert, this home will always be referred to as “The Barn”.
David was an accomplished Carpenter with a work ethic and attention to detail, that was second to none. This work ethic was greatly instilled in all of his children as well as a multitude of other talents. He loved to whistle and listen to talk radio.
He could be humorous. Often the family would go for ice cream and David would ask what everyone wanted. Armed with a list of ten different ice cream flavors, David would return with ten vanillas of each he ensured were not poisonous by taking the first bite before passing back to the kids in the van. David had a love for the ocean. In the Summer he would take his family to Cape Neddick where his children and grandchildren loved to play on the sandbar. Soon afterward, he could be found swimming far from the shore as confident and happy as we would ever see him. It was one place he could really relax, and simply enjoy the day.
David loved seafood and frequently took his family to Larry’s Clam Bar in Plaistow, NH followed by a trip to Sanborn’s Candy right up the road. David and Carol loved to go for Sunday drives. The family would often end up in antique stores, old barns, or furniture shops all over New England, a passion that his children all now share though they might have not as kids.
David had a passion for well-built furniture and general woodworking. He created many pieces for his friends and family that will be passed down for generations to come.
David served his country by joining the Army Reserves. He was an avid history buff, particularly for the World War 2 era. He enjoyed watching television particularly Mash, The History Channel, boxing, golf, and the news.
David had a gift for the written word. Poetry, Sunday Talks, Letters, and Stories. He wrote a book about his upbringing in Reading, MA, and had it published at the age of 76. He could easily capture an audience with his way of speaking.
In 1971, David and his family joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to which he remained faithful, to the end. His understanding of the Gospel of Jesus Christ was tremendous and brought great understanding and joy to him. Sunday’s at church or in the service of others, were what brought him the greatest peace. David’s love for the scriptures and His Savior were what guided him and Carol through their lives. It was the foundation for their family. They have had the blessing of meeting and making lifelong friendships through the church. Three of their children served as missionaries for the church.
David loved his wife and his children very much. His family is what made him the most happy and content with life. David very much lived his life according to the scripture “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” He was a very loving and forgiving man and father. The family is extremely grateful to all the staff at Pheasantwood Center in Peterborough, NH where David lived the past year, especially his friend Krista who ensured David had the very best care.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Research Center in Boston, MA
A small book of memories is being put together for David’s wife and children. Those who wish to share fond memories or anecdotes may do so by emailing Dave Wankier (a lifelong friend).
The arrangements are in the care of the Michaud Funeral Home, 32 Maple St., Wilton, NH. To view an online obituary or leave a condolence, please visit michaudfuneralhome.com.
