William Franklin 'Bill' Skates, 79

William Franklin "Bill" Skates, 79, of Polson died from cancer Friday, July 18, 2008, at St. Joseph Hospital. Bill was born Nov. 21, 1928, in Haakon County, S.D., to Walter and Ruth Skate.

Bill lived life to its fullest and loved his family, who were all dearest to his heart. He enjoyed baseball, fishing, golf and bowling.

His parents and a sister, Wanda Hellod, preceded Bill in death.

Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years of marriage, Beverly Jean Skates; his children, Rick Skates, Debbie Denton, Randy Skates, and Shelly Merwin; grandchildren, Kristie Fenster Maker, Tiffani Bugli, Natalie Farley, Jason Denton, Jeff Denton, and Aubrey Enderle; great-grandchildren, Makayla, Olyvia, Addison, Whitney, and Nicole Marie; and siblings, Jack Skates, Marge Boehrs, Bud Skates, Doris Brown, Bob Skates and Fred Skates.

A vigil service will be performed at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, with Father Jim Connor officiating. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 24, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com.