Daniel Stephen Skinner, 68 of Soledad passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2020 at his home with his family by his side.  He was born, November 7, 1951 in Salinas, Calif.

Dan was very proud of his service in the U.S. Army. His bravery went beyond the military and, something he rarely spoke of, was his two Medals of Valor  for entering a burning house to successfully save the lives of children inside.

Dan's musical talents enriched his and his wife, Jackie's lives for decades. His life always included playing drums and singing vocals with top-notch guitarists, keyboardists, drummers and anyone who played an instrument or sang. He was like a celebrity himself wherever he went.

Dan played many genres, including but not limited to country, blues, jazz and old-time rock 'n roll. Whenever there was a charity event, Dan and his bandmates were there to help the community and to support the cause. He played with many well-known artists and, because of his outgoing, down-to­ earth personality, many of them ended up coming back to the Skinners' home to jam, often spending a night or two, sharing good food, drinks, music and everlasting friendships.

Dan loved to travel with his wife, Jackie and his best friends. Everyone he'd meet throughout his journeys enjoyed his gregarious and bigger-than-life personality. He was a friend to all, stranger to none.

Dan was a well-renowned, master welder. His elaborate welding skills have left his signature mark throughout the valley, displayed on agriculture equipment, ornamental gates and fences, his unique works-of-art, always recognized as one of Dan Skinner's masterpieces.

When Dan wasn't welding or playing his drums, he most enjoyed Family Time, especially with his 17 grandchildren.

One of Dan's favorite pastimes was shooting guns with loved ones. If they weren't hunting for pigs or bucks, he'd erect targets at the end of the vineyard, always focusing on firearm safety.

In Dan's healthier days, he'd go meet the boys after work at The Barn for a few beers and laughs. From now on, The Barn will be a little less fun without Dan. However, Dan would want us all to live our best lives and laugh as long and loud as he did.

Dan is survived by his wife Jackie Skinner; children, Kimberly and husband Jason, Adlanta and husband Mario, Jason and wife Jeanette, Collette and husband A.J., Amanda and Janelle; siblings, Prescott Skinner and wife Adele, Suzie Rossi and husband Tony, Tim Skinner and wife Georgiana, John Skinner and wife Debbie; 17 grandchildren, Tyler, Sydney, Madison, Andreana, Atheana, Zayden, Zoey, Alleena, Catherine, Samantha, Mason, Dallie, Anthony, Ashleigh, Ayden, Wyatt, Aubree; sister-in-laws, Cheryl, Vickie, Kathy and husband Jim, Lori, and Shannon. Dan also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews, and incredible friends, too numerous to list.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Prescott "Red" Skinner and mother Rena as well as his brother, Wally.

Special Thanks to Dan's Care Team, including but not limited to, UCSF, Oncology, Urology, Salinas Oncologist, Dr. Varma, and the wonderful hospice team.

PLEASE  NOTE:

DUE TO COVID 19,  SPACE IN THE CHURCH WILL BE RESERVED  FOR  FAMILY &INTIMATE FRIENDS.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Eddington Funeral Services Chapel.

A Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 10:00 a.m. followed by an 10:30 Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church, 235 Main Street in Soledad, Calif. on Friday, July 17, 2020

Immediately following the Funeral Mass a Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held in the Soledad District Cemetery, 1711 Metz Road, Soledad, Calif. 93960

*** NOTE***

With the most current COVID outbreaks the family will not be having a gathering following the services.  The family hopes to have a Celebration of Life at another date and time when it is safer to do so.

***Photo to be included***