James "Jim" Edward Skillett

James Edward Skillett, born July 26, 1954, in Burlington, Kansas, to Kenneth and Erma Skillett, passed away on August 8, 2026, while riding his motorcycle in South Dakota. His life was marked by devotion to family, craftsmanship, service, and a steady strength that shaped everyone who knew him.

Raised in the close‑knit community of Burlington, James embodied the values of integrity, humility, hard work, and loyalty. He carried those principles throughout his life, becoming a man whose presence brought calm, whose humor brought warmth, and whose reliability brought comfort to family, friends, and colleagues alike.

A major part of James’s life was his long and respected career as a highway bridge superintendent. He spent decades building and overseeing the construction of bridges that countless travelers rely on every day. His work demanded precision, leadership, and resilience, and James met those demands with quiet pride. He believed in building things that lasted—structures that were safe, strong, and dependable.

James also devoted many years to Scouting, serving as a Scout Leader for many summers at Camp Tahuaya, where he led troops and worked hands‑on to improve camp facilities. Among his proudest Scouting accomplishments were two high‑adventure treks to Philmont Scout Ranch, cherished memories that reflected his belief in mentorship, character, and the value of the outdoors.

James is survived by his sons, Kenneth (Erin) Skillett and Curt (Kala) Skillett. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Elizabeth (EJ) Young, Sarah (Casey) Harper, Bradley Davis, and Kasey Davis; his great‑grandchildren: Lilly Young, Caleb Young, James Young, and Wesley Thompson; siblings: Jack (Joanne) Skillett, Larry Skillett, David Wallace, and Donna Wallace; and his nieces/nephews Shane Skillett, Shannon Skillett, Denton Wallace, and Deidra Wallace.

James will be remembered for his integrity, his craftsmanship, his humor, and the bridges he built—both the steel ones that span highways and the personal ones that connect hearts and lives.

Funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home in Lebo. Family will receive friends an hour before service at funeral home. Interment will follow service at Lincoln Cemetery in Lebo. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any cancer research organization of your choice. Condolences can be expressed at Vanarsdalefs.com.