Skvarca

It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Ed Skvarca on Nov. 28, 2017. Ed’s health declined over the past three years due to strokes. He was a kind, compassionate man and an all-around good guy. The twinkle in his beautiful eyes reflected his sense of humor and a bit of mischief. He was gracious host; loved to entertain, always the first to help clear the dinner dishes. A strong work ethic emerged at a very young age and continued throughout his entire retail management career. Upon graduation from Kent State University, his career began with The May Company in Cleveland, Ohio. In pursuit of career advancement Ed moved on to manage department stores for Rhodes in San Antonio and Albuquerque, Liberty House in the San Francisco Bay Area and Mervyn’s Southern California including the Lancaster store. Ed had a brilliant mind for retail management and incredible organizational skills. Always the ultimate professional, he looked at ways to provide outstanding service and promote the best return. Long time friends never let him forget he was the man who “fired Santa.” A promotional penguin was more popular than Santa that season. He enjoyed mentoring associates to help them advance in their careers. A long time resident of the Antelope Valley, California, Ed served on the Board of Directors and as Chapter Chairman of the Antelope Valley American Red Cross. He dedicated countless hours to the planning and development of the new chapter house. Survivors include his wife of 42 years Jane Janssen Skvarca, brother Dennis and wife Darlene Krotine, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Donna and Bill Lyth, nephew John Lyth (Zena), nieces Julie Drane (Cliff) and Jane Lynton (Peter) along with great nieces and nephews and a large group of long time friends, including several in La Grange. He was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Mary Jalen Skvarca and his in- laws Big Jawn and Glennie Janssen. At his request, there will be no service. A celebration to honor Ed will be held at a later date. Ed will live on in our hearts as love is forever. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter in La Grange.