Obituary for James Skitka Sr.

November 6, 1933 – October 24, 2026

James Andrew Skitka Sr., a devoted family man, distinguished serviceman, and talented musician, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Born on November 6, 1933, in Carteret, New Jersey,

While in Carteret he was a cherished member of his community and was a longstanding parishioner of Saint Demetrius Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral. Upon retiring and moving to Hertford, North Carolina, he became a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Byzantine Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

He proudly served 35 years in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of chief master sergeant where he specialized in radar and communications. In the Air Force in addition to working at many different Air Force bases stateside, he also traveled the world being deployed to far away places such as Alaska, Italy, and Iceland.

A man of many talents and interests, he was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a valued member of the Albemarle Plantation Wood Carving Group, where he honed his artistic skills with friends who shared his love for craftsmanship.

His love for music was always present throughout his life. An accomplished trumpet player, he once led his own polka band in his hometown of Carteret New Jersey and was a proud bandmaster of the American Legion Band post 263, His joy of music and talents were enjoyed by many over the years.

The one thing he loved most in his life was his beloved wife Regina of 54 years of marriage. Together they enjoyed raising a family and enjoying a well lived life together. They were a shining example of true love and dedication to both their two sons Jim and John as well as anyone who had the privilege of knowing them and just being around them.

He is survived by his two sons, Jim and John Skitka, who carry on his legacy of love and dedication. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Regina Skitka; his sister, Joan Uszenski; and his parents, Andrew and Anna Skitka.

A divine liturgy and memorial service will be held in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Byzantine Catholic Church, 216 South Parliament Drive 23462 at 8:00AM on Sunday, November 1, 2026. Friends, family, and all those whose lives were touched by him are invited to honor his memory and celebrate his remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Byzantine Catholic Church, 216 South Parliament Drive, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23462.