Obituary of Gary Lee Skinner

Gary Lee Skinner, 63, of Tucson, AZ passed away after extended poor health at his home on August 26, 2018. He was born on November 1, 1954 in Tucson, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Patrick Francis and Alice (Thompson) Skinner. Gary was married to the former Tammy Ireland on May 24, 2009, who survives. Gary started playing music (the drums) when he was 12. Playing with many of the best musicians in Tucson, he loved to sing & could play many instruments. He was a general contractor, maintenance supervisor, and specialized in Hvac/air condition. Gary was an exceptionally courageous man, tackling 3 bouts of cancer, which left him with several long term complications. He didn't let those issues get him down and was always happy to help a neighbor, family member, or friend when they were in need. Gary loved to cook, and often fixed meals for neighbors and friends. He restored a 55 Chevy which was his pride and joy. Sammy and Maggie, his boston terriers, could be seen frequently walking him around the neighborhood, and were his constant companions and source of comfort on his rough days. Gary was number 8 of 9 children. Surviving siblings include David and Karen (Christian) Skinner, Tucson, AZ; Steven Michael and Coy (Meserve) Skinner, Sierra Vista, AZ; Monte and Elnora Jean (Skinner) Cunningham, Bartlesville, OK; Judy (Skinner) Frye, Tucson, AZ; Joseph and Lea (Moore) Skinner, Tucson, AZ; Rickie Dean and Diane (Korleski) Skinner, Tucson, AZ; and Roger Skinner, Tucson, AZ. One sister Karen Kay (Skinner) Black preceded him in death. Surviving children include Catherine Louise Skinner, Tucson, AZ; Toby and Casey Moreno, Tucson, AZ; and Stephanie Lee Skinner, Victoria, BC, Canada. Grandchildren include Haleigh Christensen, Brody and Marceline Moreno, all of Tucson, AZ. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins survive. As per Gary's wishes, there will be a celebration of life party on November 21, 2018. He touched many lives and will remain in our hearts and minds. A special thanks to the TMC hospice, and Dr. Mark Maxwell and his office staff.