Donald Louis Skekel (73) passed away unexpectedly at his home in Brattleboro, Vermont on Oct. 30,2024.

Don was born August 31,1951 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania to the late Donald and Wanetta (Krah) Skekel. He graduated from Westinghouse Memorial High School in 1969. Don married his former wife, Edie Davis, in 1973. They lived in Coal Center, PA for 28 years. He worked at Dravo Company in Neville Island, PA; Hillman Barge in Brownsville, PA; and was an Operating Engineer for the Army Core of Engineers in Pittsburgh, PA. He was also a member of the Masons and an Elder at First Presbyterian Church in California, PA, and President of a chapter of CHADD (Children and Adults with ADD).

After their divorce, Don moved to Vermont to attend college and finish his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology at Vermont College of Norwich University. He then enrolled in the graduate program at Antioch University New England to complete his education toward becoming a licensed mental health and substance abuse counselor. He was so proud of walking the steps to receive his Master's Degree in 2007. This was an incredible endeavor to accomplish as he was in his fifties. He never gave up on learning!

During the time spent achieving both degrees, he worked for Hannaford's Super Market. He volunteered for the Food Shelf in Brattleboro, the homeless shelter, and was on the board of Directors for SEVCA (Southeastern Vermont Community Action).

He worked at the Pheonix House helping individuals in the correctional legal system gain a sense of independence as they entered society once leaving incarceration.

Once he gained licensure status, he opened a small private practice working with adults to gain a stronger perspective of self-empowerment. He dealt with Attention Deficit Disorder in himself and desired to help others through the frustration and symptoms of ADHD. He attended many training courses over the years to learn to better his profession. Attending training on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) specific to assisting individuals with deep traumatization to heal from distressing life experiences.

He is survived by a sister Arlene Pierce of Florida, two nephews, Russell (Sheryl) Pierce of Alaska and Todd (Julie) Pierce of Illinois and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Ronald Skekel of Louisianna.

He was an amazing man and kind to all. He will be missed by close friends and family.