Remembering Walter and Eleanor Skuby
Vladimir (Walter) Skuby was born in Brooklyn, NY on April 28, 1924 to the Archpriest Emilian and Matushka Justina Skuby. He was a graduate of the University of Maryland as well as George Washington University where he earned a Master's Degree in International Relations. He spent over 34 years in the United States Air Force, retiring at the rank of Lt. Colonel. As a true member of the “greatest generation”, Walt flew missions in three different conflicts: WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. He also was a member of the Diplomatic Corps and spent time in Frankfurt, Germany; Madrid, Spain; Moscow, Russia; and Warsaw, Poland. He was fluent in Russian and Polish.
Eleanor (Jankura) Skuby was born in Bridgeport, CT on April 23, 1928 to Peter and Anna Jankura. She earned a business degree at Bryant College (RI), where she graduated magna cum laude. She was also a member of Sigma Lambda Theta sorority, in which she was vice president. Eleanor earned numerous awards for scholarship and business, too many to mention here. Years later those skills would serve her well at St. Nicholas Cathedral.
Walt and Eleanor were married at Holy Ghost Church in Bridgeport, CT on June 30, 1951, commencing their 56-year adventure that took them around the world, starting in Frankfurt, Germany.
The couple became members of St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral in 1960 and remained so until their deaths in August 2007 and October 2008, respectively. There were assignments abroad and around the country, but they always came back to their home in Springfield, Virginia and to St. Nicholas Cathedral. Both were active members of the parish. Both sang in the choir and each was remembered for their beautiful basso and alto voices, particularly when Walter read the Epistle.
Walt served on the parish council in various capacities including President and Vice President, and Eleanor was a member of the Sisterhood (now Guild) serving in every capacity possible. Eleanor was an avid cook and can be remembered along with her dear friend Helen Daniluck, preparing impressive repast meals and clergy lunches whenever called upon. Eleanor also chaired the Food Committee at the Annual Bazaar for over 30 years.
Long-time St. Nicholas parishioners will remember the Skuby’s annual Paschal celebrations, held in their home over several decades. Finally, the couple were lifetime members of the Federation of Russian Orthodox Clubs (now known as the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America).
Walt and Eleanor are survived by their two sons, Mark Skuby (Eugenia) of Mount Laurel, NJ and Coast Guard Captain (retired) / Father Deacon Timothy (Maureen) Skuby of Moodus, CT; two sisters, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
