Joseph W. Skelly

   Joseph W. Skelly, a long time resident of Livingston County died on July 11, 1999 at the Genesee Hospital in Rochester.

   Born in Avon, New York on April 12,1917, his parents were Joseph L. Skelly and Nellie Morrisey He was a graduate of St. Agnes Elementary School, Avon High School and Notre Dame University, On his birthday in 1948, he married Mary Feeney who predeceased him in 1996. He also was predeceased by his three sisters and two brothers. Survivors Include his daughters: Mary (Carl) Traxler, Caledonia, Regina (Dick) Daniell, Caledonia, and Judy (Stephen) Dundas, Missoula, Montana, grandchildren Mike, Terry Geoffrey Elizabeth, Thomas, Caitlin Northrup and Colin and Guthrie Dundas; brother-in-law William Canfield, sister-in-law Ruth Skelly, nieces and nephews and cousins.

   In addition to being a career accountant in Rochester, he farmed on the Morrisey family farm for many years after the death of his uncles As a young man he had been employed on several area farms and developed a keen interest in carpentry and historical farmstead preservation. A parishioner at St. Columba's Church, he not only occupied the fourth pew on the Gospel side, but also filled a variety of positions including hospitality greeter usher, collections counter and member of the finance committee. He was involved in several organizations including the Notre Dame Retreat League, The Nocturnal Adoration Society, and area business groups. In later years he devoted much time to the activities of his grandchildren; he was steadfast chauffeur, enthusiastic fan and devoted sponsor of numerous events.

   Mr. Skelly was a quiet man, he will be remembered particularly for his quick wit: generous spirit and love of family. Displays of his humor were frequent; he would often make himself the focus of the humorous description. His powers of observation remained acute throughout his life, though he would often preface remarks with the phrase "I have never been accused of being too smart, but..." He loved farm life. An annual event for Joe was picture taking of small children in knee high corn fields by the fourth of July. Up to the time of his death, he remained keenly interested in local agricultural activity, along with the history of the Morrisey family.

   Despite a simple lifestyle Mr. Skelly had several interesting experiences. In 1937, he was the winner of a Packard automobile, in a contest at the dance hall in Long Point Park. Typical of his thrifty nature, he sold the vehicle and used the proceeds toward his college education. Serving in the US Army during WW II, he was stationed in San Francisco CA. Although never given to many travel adventures; Mr. Skelly visited Egypt in 1994 to visit his daughter Gina. A treasured memory from this occasion was a camel ride in front of the Great Pyramids. Joe will be fondly remembered and missed.

   Friend called Thursday, July 15,1999, 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Alhart Funeral Home, 3068 West Main Street. A funeral mass was held Friday, July 16, at 11:00 AM at St. Columba Church, officiating, Reverend Walter Plominski. A private interment was held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester. Memorials may be made to St. Columba Church, 198 North Street, Caledonia, 14423.