Marilyn Rose Skillman, 75, of Duke Center passed away Wednesday (Sept. 24, 2025) at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, N.Y.

She was born Feb. 25, 1950, in Olean, N.Y., a daughter of the late George and Georgia Slade Hakes.

She was a 1968 graduate of Bradford Area High School.

She was employed by W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery for 27 years; retiring in April 2016.

She was a member of the Otto Township Volunteer Fire Department as well as volunteering for various other service organizations. Marilyn enjoyed crocheting and working on other crafts, taking care of her houseplants, listening to her wind chimes and going out with her friend and looking for eagles. She always looked forward to her monthly lunches with a group of her childhood friends. She especially loved taking care of her puppy, Shayanne, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by four children, James (Lucy) Skillman of Bradford, John (April) Skillman of Bradford, Marilyn (Kirk) Bentley of Kane and Brittany Skillman of Eldred; as well as multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Marion Skillman and Marlene Varner; and her fiancé, Donald Swift.

A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date to be announced.

Memorial contributions in her memory can be made to the Otto Township Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 192, Duke Center, PA 16729.

Funeral arrangements are under direction of Mascho Funeral Home Inc. Online condolences can be expressed at maschofuneral.com.