George W. Skelly died June 30, 2012 at the age of 78.
He was born on the Fourth of July 1933 in Titusville, Pa., the eldest son of George E. and Mary Christine Skelly. He had three siblings: Donald, Rosemary and Loretta , of whom Loretta is still alive; and many nieces and nephews.
George was brought up in Brocton where he worked on his father's farm and graduated from Brocton Central School. At 18 years of age, he was called up to do his national service and spent two years in Korea and two years in Prestwick, Scotland, serving with the military police. It was here that he met his first wife, the late Elizabeth. When his national service was finished, he went back to America where he worked with Great Lakes Color, a company which manufactured dyes.
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George was a man who sought to better himself and he successfully undertook a degree course in Business Administration from Fredonia State University College. He became a banker, working for the Liberty National Bank and Trust Company and rose to a senior position as assistant secretary in the Fredonia office. He was a member of the American Institute of Banking.
George was not simply defined by his career, however, and he contributed a great deal, both to his parish and to his community. He was a member of the parish council of St. Joseph's Church in Fredonia and was active in the Lions Club, the American Legion and was vice president of the Chautauqua Blind Association.
A funeral service was held July 7, 2012 in the UK.
