Dennis W. Skoczylas, Sr.

Dennis W. “Skoz” Skoczylas, Sr., 65, of Goshen, died Saturday, January 03, 2009 at his home. He was born to Antoinette Ascolese on April 11, 1943 in the Bronx, New York City. On August 2, 1992 in Goshen he married Claudia Galloway. She survives. Mr. Skoczylas worked for Chrysler Corporation for over 20 years retiring in 1984. He graduated from Weehauken High School; attended the University of Hawaii; served four and a half years (1960-64) in the U.S. Army.  Skoz gave his time as a Cub and Boy Scout Leader; was assistant district committeeman for Boys Scouts of America; was a member of the Elwood Park & Zoning Boards; Elwood Athletic Club; Elwood Jaycees; Elks Lodge; a member of the Constatntine American Legion; Lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 15 where he served as commander for ten years and District three commander for four years. In Elwood he was well known as host of WGWZ, 101.7 “Fishing Indiana with Dennis Skoczylas” from 1985 to 1987; he was a member of the Michiana Jeep Club where he was an enthusiastic supporter. Skoz took great satisfaction and pride in his Jeep. He gave much time and dedicated effort to helping veterans with any and all needs. He was a former member of the Moose and Eagles Lodges and the National Rifle Association. He survived by one daughter, Denise (Don) Mason of Florida; one son, Dennis W. (Annette) Skoczylas, Jr., Lake Wylie, South Carolina; two granddaughters, Samantha and Shelby Mason; two grandsons, Joey (Janis) Skoczylas and Jakey Skoczylas both of Greenville, North Carolina; one great-grandson, Aiden; one sister, Joanne Albert, Norwalk, Connecticutt. He was preceded in death by his mother. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2009 funeral service will held at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. Pastor John Randolph of People’s Bible Church, Benton will officiate. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be given to any Veteran’s Organization or Care at Home Hospice.