Brian J. Skaggs

Brian J. Skaggs, 66, passed away peace fully on Monday, December 30, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. After a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, the Lord called him home.

Born on February 20, 1958, in Hanford, California, Brian was a beloved son of Clara and Bill Skaggs. He enjoyed a happy and adventurous childhood alongside his younger brother, Brent. A proud graduate of Hanford High School’s Class of 1976, Brian excelled academically, participated in the Future Farmers of America (FFA), showed cattle, and played football with heart and determination.  Brian married Cheryl Babin in 1982. They welcomed their daughter Marissa in 1991, with whom Brian always shared a special bond.

Brian’s dedication to excellence extended into his education and career. He earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from California State University, Fresno. For 44 years, Brian devoted his expertise and leadership to Summers Engineering, Inc., where he served as Vice President. A respected professional, he left a lasting legacy in his field and among his colleagues. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brian was a pillar of the Hanford community. He generously gave his time and talents to organizations close to his heart. He served as President of the Hanford Fraternal Hall for many years and was an active Director of the Hanford Portuguese Festa Committee, preserving traditions that brought the community together. He also spent several years as a volunteer firefighter with the Kit Carson Volunteer Fire Department, embodying his commitment to helping others.

Brian’s love for Pismo Beach was a defining part of his life. As a Director at Pismo Coast Village, he served as Chairman of the Environmental Health & Safety Committee and contributed to numerous other committees, working tirelessly to preserve and enhance the place he loved. His passion for Jeeps was well-known, and his “show Jeep” was a frequent first-place winner at car shows throughout Pismo Beach and the Central Valley.

A lifelong Fresno State football fan, Brian rarely missed a game, cheering on the Bulldogs as a loyal season ticket holder. 

Above all, Brian treasured his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and son. He found immense joy in his role as “Grandad” to his three grandchildren, Audrey, Anthony, and Austin. Brian is survived by his daughter, Marissa Mattivi, son-in-law Anthony, and their children. He is also survived by his brother, Brent Skaggs, sister-in-law Tracy, nephew Jack, and nieces Katie and Becky. Brian was preceded in death by his loving parents, Bill and Clara, whose values and love shaped the remarkable man he became.

Brian will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, humor, and his booming, infectious laugh that brought joy to everyone around him. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the memories he created. 

Services to celebrate Brian’s life will begin with a Rosary on Thursday, January 9, at 6:00 PM at Whitehurst-McNamara Funeral Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Friday, January 10, at 10:00 AM at St. Brigid Catholic Church, with interment at Grangeville Cemetery. 
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Brian’s memory to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) Heart Institute, where his beloved granddaughter received exceptional cardiac care, or to the Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic cancer research.
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brian J. Skaggs, please visit our floral store.