Schenectady - Walter Anthony Skubisz "Walt" Sr., (95) passed away on February 28. Walter was born on November, 12, 1926 in Rome, NY to the late Stanley and Mary Skubisz who emigrated from Poland.
Walt began elementary school with Polish as his primary language and quickly learned English. He grew up in a hard-working, religious family, values he carried throughout his life and passed on to his four children. He graduated from Rome Free Academy and eventually was drafted into the Army where he served in the 525th Military Intelligence Service Group during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge as a sergeant, he began work as a grocery store manager in Herkimer, NY, where he met Rose, his wife. They had four children together. Walt spent most of his working life managing Loblaws in Schenectady, enjoying the connections he made with many regular customers. After leaving Loblaws, he worked for St. Peter's Hospital in support services until his retirement.
Walt was always busy, working for his family. He used his self-taught handyman skills to renovate and then sell homes. Not one to take time for himself, he spent summer vacations on Cape Cod, camping with his family, clamming, and walking the national seashore. His love of Cape Cod was also passed on to his children. He enjoyed traveling to Mexico with a church group to help build shelters for Habitat for Humanity. He held helping others and donating to charities in high regard.
He was a devout Catholic, praying daily for his family and others and attending mass regularly at St. John the Evangelist Church. In his last months, he read a favorite passage from a prayer book entitled "Let Go, Let God," an expression of how he moved through his life and hoped his children and grandchildren would as well. His piety did not deter him from an easy smile and joking with others. Many have commented on his kindness, humor and humility, yet he shared his pride of his children's accomplishments freely.
Walt is survived by his wife of 70 years, Rose. Beloved children and grandchildren; sons, Stanley J. of Schenectady, NY, Walter A., Jr., of MA, daughter Sharon ( Don) Foerster, grandson Dylan, all of Freeport, ME, granddaughters, Mattie and Em..His older brother Joseph Skubisz of Rome, NY, many nieces and nephews, and caring neighbors, Richard, Andy and Janet. Many thanks to the Community Hospice team and Walt's private nurse, Melissa, for their help and kindness.
He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Mary. Beloved Daughter, Maria. Sister, Ann Lenio.
Interment will be at the Saratoga National Cemetery with a private veterans' memorial service to be held at a future date.
To make a giving gesture in Walt's memory, please consider a donation to the Habitat for Humanity International, "A Gift of the Heart" program, via habitat.org, or by mail at Habitat for Humanity International, 322 West Lamer St., Americus, GA, 31709.