It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Stan J. Skinner, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and icon in the outdoor sports community. Stan passed away on May 7, 2025, at the age of 80, in Tucson, Arizona.
Born on July 26, 1944, in Oklahoma City, Stan was a man whose life embodied adventure and a deep connection to the wilderness. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a degree in Journalism. Joining the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, Captain Stan Skinner served as a helicopter pilot, media publisher, and bugler. Outside of his military service, Stan pursued many business ventures, but the outdoors commanded his attention—both professionally and personally—throughout his life.
Stan was an accomplished hunter, pursuing game across three continents, earning trophy species listings in Rowland Ward's Records of Big Game and the SCI Record Book of Trophy Animals. He contributed hundreds of magazine and journal articles, edited major sporting publications, and authored several books—serving as an authoritative voice shaping the conversation around hunting, outdoor sports, and firearms. He further extended his influence on the outdoor industry in his role as a writer and editor for Safari Magazine, the flagship publication of Safari Club International (SCI).
Alongside his wife of 24 years, Barbara Mellman Skinner—an outdoors veteran and influencer in her own right—they were truly a power couple of the industry, respected for their dedication to the outdoor sporting world.
As a father, Stan often had an offbeat or profound story to share, always with an eye to teach or entertain. His encyclopedic knowledge and wanderlust made for a vast treasure trove of tales. He took his daughters on incredible adventures, exploring far-flung places such as Saudi Arabia, India, Kenya, and South Africa—shaping their world perspectives with these exotic experiences, a most amazing gift.
Stan is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his daughter Carlye Skinner Glowacki, her husband Ryan Glowacki, and their children Alexander and Madelyn Glowacki; and his daughter Carrie Skinner Haden and her sons William and Loren Haden. He is also survived by many friends, colleagues, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts, all of whom will miss his guidance, humor, and indelible presence.
Stan will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. A private memorial service will be held to honor his remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity supporting veterans or the outdoor sporting community.
