Albert Lorenz Van Skaik's Obituary
We sadly announce the passing of Albert Lorenz Van Skaik, a dedicated husband and business leader known throughout the world. Albert was born June 8, 1943, to Cliffie Durbin Van Skaik and OMC Albert Lorenz Van Skaik, USN (ret), a survivor of the Pearl Harbor attack while assigned to the USS Curtis (AV-4).
Al is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Carla Veirs Van Skaik, and his sister, Margaret Van Skaik Marsico.
Al was born in Cincinnati, OH but spent his youth as part of a Navy family stationed in many parts of the country. A good portion of his childhood was spent with family in Kentucky while his father was underway or deployed overseas. One of his greatest childhood memories was rowing out to the Navy ships in Newport, RI. Here he would take private tours of the many ships, expanding his knowledge while questioning the crew on the many systems, ship capabilities, crew duties and specialties.
This curiosity and thirst for knowledge followed Al up until his last days. Not one to sit still, he constantly traveled the world, exploring new and old technologies, manufacturing processes, product development, cultures, people and places. He loved the interaction with people from all walks of life and whether you were the CEO of the corporation or its newest entry-level employee, Al would know everything about you in a short span of time. Al had the ability to engage anyone in a meaningful discussion on their life experiences whether you were an old friend or someone he just met.
Al traveled the world collecting nautical antiques, vintage cars, parts, art, timepieces, or any item with a quality of craftsmanship that peaked his interest. Al would often follow the road less traveled. He was always willing to learn from others and eager to give advice on life lessons, business advice, or just a friendly conversation.
Graduating from Florida State University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Labor Management and Criminology, Al served as an FSU campus security officer to help him pay for college while pursuing his degree.
At a time when NASA was searching for the best and the brightest, Al was hired as an Electro/Mechanical Technician and Field Engineer. He worked at the Kennedy Space Center for NASA and the Harris Corporation. He worked primarily on the cryogenic and fuel transfer systems for the Apollo program. Al was injured in an explosion during the development of the Saturn V launch vehicle and carried embedded glass in his chest from that day forward. Al was also present for the Apollo One disaster. During a subsequent Apollo launch test, Al discovered an issue which could have resulted in death or injury and sounded the alarm to abort. Immediately chastised by his managers, Al was told to report to the launch team leadership. Al took sole responsibility for stopping the launch and was told, “Job well done, you did the right thing.”
After NASA, Al was hired by the Naval Investigative Service for the Department of Defense. Here he worked as a criminal investigator. This led to him expanding his expertise and authority working for a new agency in the Florida Department of Law Enforcement as a Special Agent. Al worked many high-profile cases, trained with several elite police departments and worked security for the 1972 Presidential Convention in Miami. His convention experience led to several job offers from Federal agencies which Al declined because he wished to stay in Florida and avoid life in a big city.
Al’s next venture was to use his law enforcement and investigative talents working for Lincoln M. Zonn, Inc. As a Management Security Consultant and Polygraph Examiner, Al would screen potential employees for companies large and small. He was known for being fair and standing behind employees who made mistakes in their youth. Al believed in second chances and learning by your mistakes.
In 1978, Al decided it was time to become his own boss. He was now the owner of Redi-Strip of Central Florida. He researched an old rust removal technology which didn’t involve the use of acid and helped preserve the metal. He primarily stripped autos but would prepare any metal for painting or plating.
His experiences here led him to his passion of restoring cars. Al developed a lifelong friendship with Henry Petronis, owner of a world-renowned collection of classic cars. Al restored several of Henry’s cars as well as other high-end automobiles. Al was known as an unequaled expert in the restoration of the Mercedes Benz 190SL. Your car was guaranteed to be correct and done with precision and quality. Al was passionate about doing things right, the first time, and would accept nothing less from his employees.
Many who Al has helped with their business, life decisions, or by just being there for them will miss him dearly. He set the example for integrity his entire life. Please honor Al’s memory with his wish regarding no service. Just remember him, his friendship, and his many talents.
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