Frank "Poppy" A. Van Skiver

Frank A. "Poppy' Van Skiver, age 89 of Gloversville (Meco) passed away peacefully on Friday December 16, 2016 at his home. Born February 24, 1927 in El Centro, California, he was the son of the late Morgan Van Skiver and Dorothy Van Skiver Sleezer. Frank graduated from high school at the age of 16 in Maryland. In his early years, he worked at the former Schenectady Army Depot where he was responsible for packing the contents to outfit entire Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals to be shipped overseas for American soldiers. He owned and operated Van Skiver's Trucking in Gloversville for over 30 years. He also worked a labor of love at Van Skiver's Cabins on the Great Sacandaga Lake. It was there that he was at his absolute happiest while watching generations of family and close friends gather. He especially enjoyed the annual Labor Day weekend "Ring of Fire" party. He loved seeing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoying the beach at "Poppy's" camp. He was a voracious reader, especially of local history and enjoyed frequent visits to local libraries. In his younger years, he was a pilot of an Aeronca Sedan which he rebuilt himself. He cherished time with his son Ron working on airplanes and traveling to airshows throughout the country. He was thrilled when his daughter Patricia had begun flying lessons. He loved spending time with his daughter SueAnn whether it was their recent trip to view Gilboa Dam or just to an appointment, she was his loyal companion whom he called "Switchy". He was a former member of the Pine Tree Rifle Club in Johnstown and he was pleased that several in the family are members including his daughter Dorothy. He had enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. One of his favorite pastimes was pulling pranks on his family and friends. He delighted in his unique ability to repurpose almost anything, which his grandchildren fondly dubbed as "Skivering it". We will miss his hearty laugh and that mischievous twinkle in his eye. Frank is survived by his wife Antonia (Puglia) Van Skiver whom he married June 25, 1950. They had a loving and eccentric 66 years together. Life was always an adventure with Frank. He was the loving and proud father of four children: Son Ronald (Beth) Van Skiver of Johnstown and daughters SueAnn (Noel - whom he considered like a son) Wing of Johnstown, Dorothy (Michael) La Porta of Gloversville and Patricia (Tom) Gibson of Schenectady; grandchildren Eric Van Skiver (fiancé Jessica Csakany), Brittany Van Skiver, Peter (Erica) Wing, Anna (Jared) Goderie, Marlaina Wing (Dan Hunter), Joseph La Porta, Trevor Gibson, Nicole Gibson and step-grandchildren Scott Royer and Terra (Chad) Kratz along with Terra's children Shepard and Cadence. He also was blessed with great-grandsons Jay and Nash Wing and baby Goderie on the way. He is survived by sisters Rella Ward, Alma Avery, and Rebecca Voght. Friends and relatives are invited to a celebration of his life on Wednesday December 21, 2016 at the home of Noel and Sue Wing, 220 Heagle Road, Johnstown from 2 to 5 pm. In keeping with Frank's wishes, a private remembrance for immediate family only will follow. Memorial contributions made to the Johnstown Public Library would be especially meaningful, or to the charity of one's choice. Dad - you wore many hats in your life literally and figuratively. You are loved by so many. Grab a hat and ......FLY HIGH AND TOUCH THE CLOUDS! Arrangements have been entrusted to Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, Gloversville. Online condolences for the Van Skiver family are available at www.brbsfuneral.com