Joseph C Skinner

Joe was born in Barron, Wisconsin on August 3, 1942. He was the fourth son of Herb and Goldie Skinner. His early youth was spent with his brothers and grandparents working on the family farm. Joe left home at an early age. After brief stops in California and Wyoming, he eventually made his way to Utah. He pulled into town with an empty gas tank and penniless pockets, but it was enough for the love of his life, Leslie Arnold. After a whirlwind romance, he convinced her to marry him, and they spent the next 60 years building a legacy. After the pair was married, Joe and Leslie made their way back to California where Joe was introduced to the awning business. Seeing an opportunity to start his own business, Joe moved his family back to Utah to build J&J Awnings with his brother, Jim. The two brothers built a thriving company. Apart from his family, the business was the pride of his life. Joe was known by his customers for his strong work ethic and commitment to delivering a quality product. When not working, he could be found hunting or fishing. Ever a farm boy, Joe loved the outdoors and wild places. His favorite adventure spots included Defa’s Dude Ranch, Browns Park, and “the ranch” in Pinedale, Wyoming. Later in life, Joe and Leslie built a cabin in the Uinta mountains. The cabin provided a landing spot for friends and family to gather and make lasting memories. Joe took his ventures from the mountains to the racetrack. For many years, he could often be found drag racing his Ford Falcon on Friday nights at the Rocky Mountain Raceway. He was affectionately called, “Smokin’ Joe,” for his epic burnouts. Joe is onto his next adventure, and his family is sure he will be pushing the pedal-to-the-metal in Cowboy heaven. Joe had a great love for his family: wife, Leslie, and five children: Tammy (Kurt) Kilpack, Tonya (Steve) Riley, Joseph Jr. (Katilia) Skinner; Aimee Skinner (deceased); and Scott Skinner. He loved his amazing children and grandchildren: Duston (Andrea) Riley (deceased); Kellianne Escobedo; Aimee (Brad) Francis; Marci (Chase) Niemeyer; Maihi Fujita, Nickayla (Jake) Hiler, Katerra Skinner; Sierra Skinner; Aisleigh Escobedo; Allison Riley; Mac Francis; Eli Francis; Cailee Niemeyer; Nya Hiler; Abe Niemeyer, and Jaxi Hiler.

Join us for a graveside service in commemoration of Joe on Friday, October 22nd, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. Services will be held on the west side of the Bountiful Cemetery, 2224 South 200 West, Bountiful, under the direction of Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, Ut. A light luncheon will follow at Woodland Park in Farmington, Utah.