Michelle T. Talikka Skillman

On April 29, 2016, Michelle Talikka Skillman, age 47, passed away at home with her family and friends at her side. She battled breast cancer since November, 2014, and fought a valiant effort until the end. A lifelong Painesville resident, Michelle was a beloved Intervention Specialist at Heritage Middle School in Painesville. A teacher for 22 years, she taught at many schools in the district as well as at Notre Dame College as an Adjunct Professor. Teaching was her passion, and she loved children. She was also known in the community for establishing an annual Veterans Day celebration and many other community service projects helping the less fortunate. She was a graduate of Riverside High School, Kent State and Concordia Universities. Michelle was in the process of pursuing her dream of developing an equine therapy program at Derbyshire Stables in Concord when she passed away. Michelle is survived by her loving husband, Tom Skillman; children, Dakota (18), Hunter (18), Talikka, Madison (6); her stepchildren, Leslie (Jason) Johnson and Sandra (Joe) Granberg along with seven grandchildren; her parents, Tish and Leo (Annie) Talikka; her in-laws, Robert and Darlene Skillman and Sally Chase; sister, Kirsti (Vince) Garlock; step brothers, Dan (Rachel) Skillman, Stephan (Sami) Skillman, Alan Chase, Mac (Danielle) Chase; ten nieces and nephews; her many aunts and uncles, cousins, friends, and pets. An avid animal lover, Michelle had four dogs, three cats, a guinea pig and a horse who provided her much comfort and joy. Calling hours will be held at Potti Funeral Home, 1009 Mentor Avenue, Painesville on Thursday from 1 to 7 p.m. The funeral will be Friday at Zion Lutheran Church, 508 Eagle Street, Fairport, at 4 p.m. There will be an open visitation at the church one hour prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, a fund in support of Michelle's children has been created. Donations may be payable to Heidi Skok, as trustee, and sent to 160 Hickory Hill Road, Painesville, OH 44077 with the notation that this is for the Skillman/Talikka children's' accounts. Arrangements by Potti Funeral Home.