Jack Skates

Jack T. Skates, 89, of Cody, Wyo., passed away on November 3, 2016.

Jack was born in Carlin, S. D., on April 17, 1927, to Walter and Ruth Carlin Skates. His early childhood was spent in Eagle Butte, S.D.; the family moved to Billings, Mont., when he was 9. Jack proudly served in the Navy during WWII. Upon returning to Billings, Mont., he met and married Doreen Knaub on April 10, 1948.

In 1952, the family moved to Cody, Wyo., where Jack began his career at Steck's IGA, and later went into partnership with Dick Steck. In 1971, Jack & Doreen purchased the War Surplus Store in downtown Cody; which later became Jack Sport's & OK Hardware, "Everything under the Gun". One of his proudest accomplishments was being elected as Mayor of Cody in 1993, he served two terms. He loved the town of Cody and serving the community. Upon his retirement, Jack and Doreen enjoyed camping in their 5th wheel up the North Fork.

Jack was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Cody Lions, Elks, VFW, American Legion, and served as a 4th of July parade marshal for 20 years. Throughout the years he and Doreen could be found at youth baseball games and many high school sporting activities as well as community events. Jack loved to have family gatherings as often as possible; and loved being around his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jack enjoyed life, meeting new people, promoting Cody, taking pack trips to the mountains, and Wednesday coffee sharing stories with his cronies. 

He is survived by his wife, of 68 years, Doreen; brothers, Bob (Lea) and Fred Skates; children, Mark (Debbie Clark), Marcie (Dale) Johnson, Kevin (Connie), Pam (Jim) Betters; 18 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Marge, Wanda & Doris; and brothers, Bud and Bill. 

A public viewing was held Tuesday, Nov. 8 at Ballard Funeral Home. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Nov. 9 at Trinity Lutheran Church and graveside services followed at Riverside Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Jack's name to Trinity Lutheran Church, 3401 Sheridan Ave., Cody, WY  82414 or The Cody Recreation Foundation, PO Box 1531, Cody, WY  82414