10/18/1948 – 5/23/2026
Topeka
Robert was known by many as “Jack” a nick name picked up in the Marines. He was also known as “Ski” to his fellow veterans and staff at Rose Villa assisted living in Topeka, KS. He went to be with the Lord in the early morning of May 23, 2026. He always said, “Joy comes in the morning”.
Born on October 18,1948 in Ashland, PA. to the late Peter Skulskie and the late Dorothy Agnes Skulskie (Demko) where he spent his early years surrounded by his grandparents, aunts, uncles and many cousins. He was his Grandma Demko’s lucky charm at the Bingo Hall. His family later moved to Willow Grove, PA. where he graduated from Upper Moreland High School and immediately enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. While in the Corp he received the National Defense Service Metal, Vietnam Service Metal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Peter Skulskie and a grandson, Joshua Skulskie.
He is survived by his four children Jennifer Elloitt (Brad) Chicago, Ill., Sarah Stalker, Denver CO., Peter Skulskie (Toni), Baldwin City, KS., Caleb Skulskie, Lawrence, KS and his former wife Jan Mason (Jerry) the mother of his children.
He also leaves Margie Baston his former wife, best friend and continued life partner and her sons; Russell Baston (Nancy), David Baston (Tami) and Michael Baston all of Lawrence, KS.
Robert loved being a grandpa. He was a child at heart. He had seven grandchildren and six step-grandchildren.
He leaves a sister Dorothy Ann Skulskie of Hatboro, PA.
His best friend and fellow Marine, Fred Lucero, shared numerous trips to the Colorado mountains. They got together every Veterans Day to celebrate their service to the United States of America. Robert also enjoyed cooking, gardening, flowers and vegetables. Making hot salsa from the garden was his favorite. He loved his traditional Slavic recipes.
A grave side service with Military Honors will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026 at 2:00 at Oak Hill Cemetery, 1605 Oak Hill Ave., Lawrence, KS. 66044.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.
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