He resided and attended school in Shabbona in his early years. On May 6, 1950, he married Dolores "Dolly" Albrecht of Union. They resided in Hinckley for five years, then Marengo and Union for the past 55 years.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion Henry F. Miller Post No. 482 and the Woodstock Moose Lodge.
He was self-employed operating Skinner Amusements, a family-owned business in operation for 100 years. The business was founded by his grandfather, George Skinner, then passed on to Maurice and William (Les' father) and eventually by Les and Douglas Skinner. He operated a train ride at 10 years old. In 1946, he purchased his first ride and continued adding more rides. Skinner Amusements has been recognized with many service and safety awards including "75 years of faithful service to McHenry County" from the McHenry County Fair Association.
On April 11, he celebrated the 100th anniversary of Skinner Amusements with a gathering of past and present employees.
He was a hard worker and dedicated to making sure the rides were running safely and always was there to repair anything.
He enjoyed basketball and football.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dolly; his son, Kevin (Diane); his grandchildren, Jamie, Jeff, Jim, Joe, John and Jenny; his great-grandchildren, Devin, Kaylee and Brynne; his sister, Martha Sampson; his sisters-in-law, Judith Albrecht, Marlene Skinner and Virginia Skinner; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and William Skinner; his brothers, Dean and Harold Skinner; his niece, Deanette Carter; his nephews, Jay Reinhard and Douglas Skinner; and an uncle, Sam Saud.
The visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 15, at Marengo-Union Funeral Home, 505 E. Grant Highway, Marengo. The visitation will continue from 9:30 a.m. until the service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 16, at St. Johns United Church of Christ, 1784 Jefferson St., Union. Interment will be in Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the church.
For information, call the funeral home at 815-568-8131.
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