Obituary of William D. Skinner

William David Skinner died February 5, 2025, at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center after a long illness with Halcyon and Debe at his side. He was born in Millinocket on September 25, 1949.

Bill served with distinction in the US Army, training at Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio and then serving in a forward medical clearing station in Vietnam. He was then assigned to Letterman General Hospital (San Francisco) where he received commendations for his contribution. He returned to Maine and became a lifelong public servant with the Department of Health and Human Services (Bangor Mental Health Institute), retiring after 40 years of uninterrupted service. During his service in several capacities, he was known for loyalty, attention to detail and precision. He supported decades of human and civil rights activism and, starting in the 1960's, participated in action that brought attention to social injustices. 

Bill was predeceased by his immediate family and many close friends, including Joan Mahar and Joanne Monihan. He is survived by extended family members including a sister, Mernard Moscone of Millinocket and her family and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by former coworkers and much-loved lifelong friends to whom he was devoted. He was honored to have known them and was thankful for their influence in his life. Debe and Mark, Doug and Laurie, George and Francie, Claire, their children and others in his social circle extended him cherished family inclusion. A special thank-you to Margaret of Santa Fe, a close friend since 1978, to Jill whose leadership and mentoring enhanced life, and to Marty, Sandy, Peter, Karen, Kathy, Cindy, Phyllis, Jim, Rick, Fran and his oldest friend Earlene. A broad smile for the fair Halcyon! Bill asks them all to enjoy good food accompanied by humour and enlightened discourse, remembering him at table with a good wine. The staff of the Bangor Veterans Clinic, Togus VA Hospital and Northern Light EMMC are thanked for the care and treatment provided.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no memorial services and he will be interred at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta, ME.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.directcremationofmaine.com