James Matthew Skibo

James' Livestream Service will begin at 10 a.m CT on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

There are two ways to join the Live Webcast:  

1. Scroll down to the Events, under the Livestream Service click on "Watch Event"  

2. Click on tribute wall (above) and click on "Live Webcast"   

While attending Forest Park High School, he met Becky Gamble, the love of his life. After graduating in 1978, Jim and Becky went to Northern Michigan University where he received his bachelors. On Dec. 27, 1981, Jim and Becky married. They then moved to Tucson, Ariz., where Jim pursued his masters and doctorate at the University of Arizona. While in Tucson, Jim and Becky welcomed their son, Matthew William Skibo.

After receiving his doctorate in 1990, Jim was offered a job at Illinois State University. He began his work there in the fall of 1992 and soon after, they completed their family with the addition of their daughter, Sadie Skibo. Jim worked at Illinois State for over 20 years and became the chair of his department. In 2012, he was honored as the Distinguished Professor in celebration of his scholarship and many years of service. Jim retired from Illinois State University in 2018 and he and Becky moved to White Lake, Wis. In 2021, Jim and Becky moved to Madison to be closer to their children and Jim came out of retirement to join the Wisconsin Historical Society as the State Archaeologist.

James was preceded in death by his father, Mathew L. Skibo.  He is survived by his wife, Becky Gamble Skibo; children, Matthew William Skibo and Sadie Skibo; mother, Rose Mae Skibo; and sisters, Mary Fran Bjork and Karen Ventura.

Those are the facts but they don’t come close to describing who Jim was to so many. He was warm, inviting, and could be incredibly goofy. Regardless of the occasion, he would begin his presentations with a joke. In his spare time, he loved to complete wood-working projects, enjoy a latte, and join whatever activity his family members were involved in. He was happiest when on an adventure, surrounded by people who loved him.

Jim loved his job and would say frequently that he had never worked a day in his life. Mentors and colleagues became life-long friends.

Our family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we’ve received during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please offer a gift of love in action. When you wish you could grab coffee with him, buy a cup of coffee for someone in need. When you cite his work, send words of encouragement to a colleague. When you witness ignorance and intolerance, show up with curiosity and compassion.

A memorial service will be held at GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5701 Raymond Road, Madison, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 22, 2023. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420