William A. Skinner
William A. Skinner, age 89, of Concord Township, peacefully passed away on Nov. 15, 2025, at Hillcrest Hospital in Mayfield Heights.
Born on Oct. 18, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Harwood N. and Nellie (nee Smith) Skinner, Bill grew up with a strong work ethic and a warm heart that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of Chardon High School, Class of 1958.
On Dec. 27, 1958, Bill married the love of his life, Dorothy M. Stumpf, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, laughter and unwavering support. Throughout their life together, they moved many times—making homes in Chardon, Ohio, McLean, Va. Mentor, Ohio, Falls Church, Va., Brecksville, Ohio, and ultimately in Concord Township. No matter where life took them, they faced each new chapter side by side.
With Dorothy’s encouragement, Bill pursued his education, earning his bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College and later completing his law degree at American University.
Bill enjoyed a long and successful career in patent law. He began as a research chemist before discovering his passion for intellectual property. Over the years, he served as a patent agent, attorney and administrative law judge, sharing his expertise with Diamond Shamrock, BF Goodrich and ExxonMobil, as well as the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He retired in 2003 with deep pride in the work he accomplished.
Outside of his career, Bill embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved golfing, playing poker and gathering with friends, especially the cherished mornings spent over coffee at Panera.
Above all, Bill treasured his family. His steady presence, gentle humor and kind spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy Skinner, of Concord Township; his children, Steve Skinner, of Parma, Ohio,Linda Skinner, of Moyock, N.C., and Scott Skinner, of Mentor, Ohio; sister-in-law, Mary Jane Jonke, of Chardon; and nieces, Leslie Pietila, of North Carolina, Sherrie (Rob) Blivens, of North Carolina, Judy (Gary) Thrasher, of Concord Township, and Joann (Scott) Woodbridge, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Charles L. (Nancy) Smith.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Nov. 24, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. A memorial service will follow at 12 p.m., with interment at Concord Township Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
