Martin Skiles ‘JR’

Martin N Skiles, “JR”, passed away unexpectedly on April 8, 2025 at the age of 53. He was a beloved husband, father, and friend. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who loved and knew him.

Martin is preceded by his parents, Neal and Jean Skiles.

He is survived by his loving wife, his high school sweetheart, of 29 years Cari (aka CariBerry) and their 3 daughters, Haylee, Macie, & Emma. He was such a proud father and loved these young women with his whole heart, unconditionally.

He graduated from DuPont High School in 1989 & WVSU in 1994. He worked at Goldfarb Electric and Real Estate Resources. In 2001, he began his apprenticeship with NEIEP for the elevator trade. He advanced from helper to mechanic and loved his “job” which he referred as his career not a “job”. His career offered him the opportunity to travel WV & meet a lot of people. Chances are if you have an elevator, you’ve met Martin, the guy with the beard. He worked for TKE, Otis, Murphy, Schindler, & Industrial elevators. He was an officer, warden, for a short time for the union IUEC#48.

Martin was sarcastic & had a wit like no other. He was an honorable man but was not intimated by opinion or popularity. He enjoyed riding motorcycles with his lifelong friend, Shawn Kinison. He liked everything outdoors. Fishing, kayaking, deer hunting at his camp with his “brother from another mother”, Randy McVey. He was an avid gardener, carpenter, and artist.

He spent time in his basement mancave watching YouTube and listening to music. He was simply, Martin, “doing Martin things”.

He was a true pillar of strength within his family. The magnitude of losing him so suddenly cannot be put into words. He will always be remembered, loved, and missed.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Fidler and Frame Funeral Home, Belle, with Mike Skiles officiating. Visitation will be two hours prior to service time at the funeral home on Saturday.

Please visit our website, fidlerandframefuneralhome.com, to send the family online condolences or sign the guest book.