Philip Skeps Sr.

Skeps, Philip On Saturday, January 22, 2011, Philip Skeps, Sr. joined his beloved wife Elouise Hayes Skeps in Heaven.

He was born on April 13, 1912, in Buffalo, NY on the banks of the Erie Canal to immigrant parents Giuseppe and Rosa Marchello Schepse . The family relocated to a tiny town, Clymer, NY, where he was the only dark-haired kid in a predominately Dutch community. The local doctor and veterinarian took him under their wing and as a boy he assisted them with surgeries. Although the shortest on the team, he was a star basketball player with the Flying Dutchmen. A lifelong Yankees' fan, he saw Babe Ruth hit a homerun in Cleveland. He also developed his interest in music, commuting to Buffalo for banjo lessons. He earned money for college as a basketball referee and playing for dances with a band.

A lifelong educator, he graduated from the State Teachers College at Fredonia in 1947. The next 20 years were spent in Portville, NY, teaching music. His band took top honors in the state for many years and throughout the years his students have kept in touch. Two of his students became professors of music and many have continued playing their instruments yet today. While in Portville, he met fellow teacher, Elouise Hayes, married and together they raised four children. To better support his family he obtained a Masters in Education from St. Bonaventure University. In 1955, he became Supervising Principal in Newfield, NY and served there until 1965. He was most proud of his accomplishment with the help of Assemblywoman Constance Cook, in keeping the district from consolidation with the Ithaca School system recognizing the value of preserving the smaller community for increased opportunities for youngsters. In 1965, he moved to Dryden, NY where he served until 1972 as Assistant District Superintendent. In addition to preparing the budget and supervising the physical plant, he coached the golf team to an unbeaten season with his son, Philip, a member of that winning team. He retired at age 60 but stayed healthy golfing winter and summer and traveling with his wife, visiting the tiny village in Sicily where his parents were born. He lacked only a few days of making 65 years of marriage. Elouise passed away 6-23-03. He was also preceded in death by his younger brothers, a sister and his daughter Andrea Skeps Anderson who passed away 4-28-71.

He is survived by his son Michael (Sylvia) Skeps of Tucson, AZ; daughter Rachael (Daniel Eicher) Pierce of Groton, NY; son Philip (Catherine Morrell) Skeps, Jr. of Palmyra, VA; grandchildren Wilbur Franklin (Lisa) Pierce IV, Carl (Claire) Skeps, Michelle Skeps, Arne Anderson, Sarah Michael) Natale, and Raymond (Elisabeth) Skeps, Tim Morrell and Joseph Skeps; great-grandchildren, Sarah, Sommer, Philip, Anthony, Rosemary, Haley, Samantha, Michael, Sofia, Adestra, Sorella, and Michael Angelo; several nieces and their families.

Philip Skeps' goal was to live to 102 years. He was such a strong person of faith and determination, we all thought he'd reach his goal. His favorite Bible verse was Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me". He died at home where he wanted to be. He was at peace and is even more so now. He was 98.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no funeral, just a cremation and burial next to my Mother and Sister in Shinglehouse, PA at a future date. Perkins Funeral Home is assisting the family. www.perkinsfuneralhome.com