Frank Hamilton Skold, Jr., 84, of Cookeville, TN, passed away on October 11, 2024.Born on May 30, 1940, in Harvey, IL. He was a devoted husband to Joann and a loving father to Heidi, Kevin & Heather.
Frank grew up in Clarendon Hills, IL and attended the University of Illinois, studying Electrical Engineering before enlisting in the United States Army in 1962. He achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant as a Field Artillery Officer with a 105 Howitzer battalion based at Fort Devens in Massachusetts before honorably discharged in 1966. Frank was a hard-working and dedicated salesman and small business owner. He spent years working as a salesman and manager at 3M Corporation and Porelon, where he was known for his loyalty, integrity, and commitment to excellence. These early career positions lead him to his true calling in life, small business ownership. He started Dixie Materials Handling, Inc, and Dixie Dock Enterprises in Cookeville, TN., and thrived for decades before selling his businesses and retiring in 2005.
Despite his many responsibilities, Frank was known for his Thursday golf games at the Cookeville Country Club, traveling with Joann, savoring a bourbon and water, walking his dog, coaching basketball, dancing (gartoring), singing ‘Two Pina Coladas,’ and enjoying gatherings with friends around the pool and at Spankies.”
Dad never met a person he didn’t treat as a lifelong friend. He was a beloved family man who would do anything for his wife Joann and those he held dear. He had a passion for Corvettes and was an avid member of several Corvette Clubs and enjoyed his regular Corvette rallies and trips to the Corvette Museum. Dad had a deep love for animals and shared his life with several beloved dogs, most notably Zoe and his travel companion Moxie.
He was preceded in death by his parents Frank Hamilton Skold, Sr and Ruth Lindman Skold, and his wife of 53 years, Joann Lindsay Skold.
He is survived by his sister, Betty Shogren (Charlie) and their family of Cape Coral, FL, his children, Heidi Jane Spurgeon (Neal), Kevin Lindsay Skold (Christine), and Heather Naomi Weidekamp (John) as well as grandchildren Holly Spurgeon Braun (Justin), Ross Fisher Spurgeon (Rayna),Lindsay Ellen Skold, and Ava Elise Weidekamp, Great Grandchildren Peyton Braun, Leland Braun, and Robbie Jane Spurgeon as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers that helped during this difficult time, especially Home Instead of Cookeville, TN, who offered exceptional support and kindness that made a significant difference in our lives. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 3, 2024, from 1 – 4pm at Spankies Restaurant in Cookeville, TN. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to either the Corvette Museum Foundation, Inc or Cookeville/Putnam Co Animal Shelter. We find comfort in knowing that Dad’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
WILLIAMSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES615-794-2289 www.williamsonmemorial.com
