Barry Skolnik, 62, passed away peacefully from glioblastoma complications on February 8 at his home in Florida. He is survived by his wife Beth Skolnik; his children, Sharon (Joshua) Perla, Leslie Skolnik (Tom Woloshyn), and Steven Skolnik (Jillian Putman); his granddaughters, Scarlett, Madison, Sammie, and Taylor; his brother, Mark (Ellen) Skolnik and sister Diane (Larry) Gomberg: his nieces and nephews, Laura Skolnik Wolf (Chad Wolf), Todd (Leanne) Gomberg, Adam (Lauren) Gomberg, and Mara (Courtney) Shanahan; and his great niece and great nephews, Laila, Nolan, and Harley. He was the son of the late Isadore and the late June (Heyman) Skolnik.
Barry was a caring and compassionate man, who was loved by and devoted to his family and friends. He was known for his humor, never letting an opportunity for a corny joke or pun pass him by. He never did anything halfway and always put others first. He had many hobbies and interests, including tennis, skiing, hiking, snorkeling, music, photography and home renovation. He also enjoyed traveling, with Hawaii being one of his favorite destinations.
He played trumpet with the Northshore Concert Band for over 35 years and served as a Board Member and as President during his tenure with the band. He blew the Shofar for the High Holiday services at North Shore Congregation Israel for 30 years.
Barry began his professional career as a band director and then spent 33 years at FedEx before retiring in 2017. Throughout his career he was a beloved mentor to many.
He was a long-time resident of Highland Park, Illinois, and after retiring he relocated to Southwest Florida with his wife. In Florida he was able to pursue other passions including bicycling, kayaking, walking, and taking pictures of beautiful sunsets.
Barry will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will forever be remembered and cherished.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Barry will be held at a later date in Chicago.
Donations in Barry’s memory may be made to: Northshore Concert Band,1555 Sherman Avenue #315, Evanston, IL 60201, northshoreband.org/support
OR
North Shore Congregation Israel “High Holiday Fund," 1185 Sheridan Road, Glencoe, IL 60022, nsci.org (then click on the "give" tab).