John Skees

John R. Skees, 80, died Friday, January 30, 2015 of a massive heart attack.John was born on August 3, 1934, and was a lifetime resident of Great Falls. He graduated from Great Falls High School in 1952 and the University of Montana in 1956, where he received a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance.John owned and operated Skees Fireplace Center and Woodburning Village for over 23 years. He proudly served in the Navy as a pilot and later commanded both Reserve Units until he retired after 20 years with the rank of Lt. Commander.A community leader and philanthropist, John served on many boards including the Special Olympics, Montana State Fair, University of Great Falls, and was a member of the Montana State Golf Association Board of Directors for 15 years.John liked dogs, the Griz, white fast cars (lots of them) and washing those white fast cars. No one enjoyed mowing his lawn more than John. He was an avid golfer and well known for his creative welding skills and he spent hours in his shop.People knew John as a straight talker, hard worker, and compassionate. He was a man of great faith.John married Darlene Glantz in 1957 and was widowed in 1998. On June 12, 2005, he married Sue Todd. He is survived by his wife, several nieces and nephews, five god children, and many great friends.A celebration of Johns life will be held at a later date.Memorials are suggested to the Animal Foundation of Great Falls, PO Box 3426, Great Falls, MT 59403 or the Great Falls Rescue Mission, 326 2nd Ave. S., Great Falls, MT 59401.