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IN MEMORY

Skipper Rostker - Class Of 1936

Skipper Rostker, born Kenosha, Wisconsin, March 24, 1919, passed away December 7, 2015.  He attended Arizona University, Northwestern (where he met Patricia, the love of his life), and 40 years later Cal State LA where he earned his degree.  He served in the US Navy during WW II, on the USS Dickens, an amphibious attack transport.  Skipper married Patricia in 1944 and they lived over 50 years in Pasadena.

Skipper was a businessman, active in the community and loved his family, and all children.  As a businessman, he was in the life insurance field and owned a print shop.  As an active community member, he took part in a lawsuit which involved suing the Pasadena School District to force integration, which was decided by the US Supreme Court in 1970 in favor of the community.  Skipper further served the community as a member of the board of directors of Pasadena Community Hospital and also as a LA County Grand Jury member in 1966.  Skipper was a life-long Democrat, working many campaigns and acting as Secretary for the State Democratic Party for many years.  

His birthday parties were hosted for many children who enjoyed his magic tricks and rides on his old fire engine. The birthday gifts were toys that were donated to Head Start.  

Skipper never met a stranger, and his greatest joy was bringing a smile to every face he encountered. He was a champion for human and animal rights. He marched in one of the first Pasadena Doo Dah Parades advocating for free range chickens, and at 92 was still picketing against the war.

Skipper is preceded in death by Patricia his wife of 67 years. He brought her coffee in bed with a love poem every morning.  Patricia wanted water for everyone, so he built and surprised her with 3 public drinking fountains.  His unparalleled love and devotion for her serves as a role model for us all.  For those of us lucky enough to have known him, he will always hold a special place in our hearts.

He is survived by daughters, Vivion, Margaret, sons, Murphey (cherished daughter in law Phyllis), Steve (Wendie), four grandkids.  No services were held -- he will be buried beside Patricia in Arkansas.

 

Published in Pasadena Star-News from Dec. 11 to Dec. 13, 2015