Robert Skorich

Robert Dan (Bobby) Skorich, 62, passed away on November 30 after a courageous struggle with pneumonia.  Bobby had a sweet soul with a  loving disposition and a ready smile.  In his youth he overcame many challenges resulting from Down's Syndrome.  With the strong encouragement and support of his proactive mother, Margaret, he actively participated in the Special Olympics and many other programs for the handicapped.  He even managed to earn a special GED.  He also worked for a time at Opportunity Workshop and at the high school as a janitor.

Bobby loved music and learned to play the guitar - at least good enough to recognize his favorite tunes.  His CD collection was enviable!  He had an uncanny memory for numbers, especially dates, and would often send birthday cards to family members - sometimes with a dollar in it, even though he had few to spare. As he became more developmentally disabled, he moved into Maple View home, where he was cared for by loving staff who considered him one of their favorites.

Bobby is survived by his sister Mana Holtz of Naples, Florida; nephews Cade (LauraLee) Raukar of Hibbing and Aaron (Erin) Raukar of Crystal; nieces Lindsay (Dan) Lerick of Hibbing and Carri Priley (Paul Hagberg) of St. Paul;   grand nephews Drew Raukar, and Henry, Charlie and Milo Lerick; and grand nieces Alli Raukar and Hazel Raukar.  He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation has been entrusted to Dougherty Funeral Home.  The family will hold a small graveside gathering at Maple Hill  Cemetery at a later date.