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Michael Lee Skillman was born on September 8, 1950, in Ainsworth, NE, to Ralph and Esther (Ulrich) Skillman. Michael grew up and lived in Ainsworth where he graduated from Ainsworth High School and attended Southeast Community College in Milford for two years. He married the love of his life, Barbara Peterson, on December 27, 1969, in Blair, Nebraska, and to this union two children were born: David and Christine.

Michael was a force to be reckoned with in the automotive world. His career began at Tracy's Auto Body Shop, where he dedicated 20 years to honing his skills and broadening his knowledge base. In 1991, he took a leap of faith and established his own business, Skillman Auto Body. His unwavering commitment to quality and service soon led him to further expand his business ventures with Skillman Auto Sales.

Outside of work, Michael remained just as passionate about the automotive world. He found joy in collecting and restoring hot rods, with a particular fondness for his 1964 Pontiac GTO. A true thrill-seeker, Michael could often be found at sprint car races or drag races, his enthusiasm for the sport infectious to all around him. Michael was also a dedicated member of the Sons of the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife Barbara Skillman; son and daughter, David Skillman and special friend Holly, Denton, NE; and Christine (Michael) Hulinsky, LeMars, IA; grandchildren Ethan, Luke, Becca, Karis, all of LeMars, IA; and Chase and Summer Skillman of Lincoln, NE; Brother, Steve (Mary) Skillman, Denton, NE; sister Linda Kelly, Phoenix, AZ; nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Esther Skillman, parents-in-law Roy and Lorraine Peterson.

Celebration of Life Service: Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Denton Community Building.

Memorials are to be given to the family for a future designation.

Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services – Milford.

~~~Obituaries courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair, Nebraska Public Library~~~

Find a Grave Memorial #280932732