James Skaggs

James “Jim” Skaggs, age 83, passed away Sunday, May 20, 2012 at Rendons Young at Heart AFC Home in Caro, following a lingering illness. Jim was born October 11, 1928 in Pontiac, the son of the late Thomas and Pearl (Morgan) Skaggs. He was a graduate of Pontiac High School and went on to trade school in Pontiac. He then enlisted and served in the U.S. Army where he repaired small arms on the front lines in Korea. He was united in marriage with the former Madelyn Turner in Bowling Green, Ohio. Jim lived in Clarkston while employed with General Motors in Flint as a tool and die maker for fourteen years. He moved to Deford so he could farm in 1967, and began working at Walbro in 1970. In 2001, Jim and Madelyn moved to Cass City where they have resided since. Jim was a gifted woodworker, and enjoyed making furniture and cabinets, as well as playing poker and the time he spent in the 70s sailing Lake Huron. Jim is survived by his wife, Madelyn Skaggs of Cass City; one daughter and her husband, Catherine & Don Erla of Caro; one son and his wife, Gary & Susan Skaggs of Madison, Alabama; three grandsons, Jerry Erla of Caro, Brad Erla of Midland and Ethan Skaggs of Madison, Alabama; one great-granddaughter, Akyra Erla of Caro; one sister, Marjorie Getter of Columbiaville; several nieces and nephews. In keeping with Jims wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at the Indianfields Township Cemetery Chapel. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the charity of the donors choice.