Robert W. Skidmore

Robert W. Skidmore, Sr., 83, of Oneonta, New York, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, at Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, New York, surrounded by his loving family. Affectionately known as “Skiddy,” he was born in Stamford, New York, on June 5, 1943, to Kenneth and Mary (Cease) Skidmore. He was raised in the village of Bloomville, where he built lifelong friendships, and attended South Kortright Central School and Delaware Academy.

For 61 years, Bob was the devoted husband of Linda LaMartina. Together, they created a wonderful, close-knit family. Throughout his life, Bob was a dedicated worker, known for his impeccable work ethic. He retired as Superintendent of Construction for Andrew R. Mancini and Associates of Endicott, New York. He and the company constructed and renovated many institutions in the area including Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, the Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing (formally Otsego Manor), Oxford Nursing Home, Binghamton Boys and Girls Club, SUNY at Binghamton, Hartwick College, SUNY College at Oneonta, and the Oneonta City School District where all five of his children attended school.

In more recent years, he spent his time supporting his wife and daughter in their family business, Jillian’s Dance Arts.

A well-known and friendly face in both Oneonta and Bloomville, Bob loved spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and gathering with folks around town. He was an avid fan of NASCAR, football, golf, and other sports. Above all, he cherished his family, puttering around, walking his beloved dogs, and watching sports in his garage—where the door was always open to everyone.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his children and their spouses: Vicki and James Lyall, Caryn and TJ Dwyer, Michael and Jackie Skidmore, and Jillian and Kyle Besemer; his grandchildren: Robert Lyall, Madeline Skidmore, Grace Lyall, Rachael Dwyer, Thomas Dwyer, Julia Skidmore, Scarlett Besemer, and Beckett Besemer; as well as his nieces, nephews, many dear friends, and his faithful dog, Tobey.

He was predeceased by his son, Robert W. Skidmore, Jr., his sister, Mary (Gene) Muthig, and many good friends.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 10 o’clock at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Walnut Street in Oneonta, NY. Interment with committal prayers will immediately follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Emmons, NY.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be directed to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the SPCA, or a charity of your choice.