Gertrude Elizabeth Skiff

Gertrude Elizabeth “Trudi” Skiff was born on November 25, 1934, in Gloucester NJ. She grew up in a close-knit family with parents, Theodore and Rose Matthiessen, and three sisters: Marge, Rose, and Joan. Her paternal grandparents resided in Germany and maternal grandparents shared the Matthiesen home. Trudi played piano and cello in her youth.

She moved to Tampa Florida and was employed as Executive Secretary for 33 years with Maas Brothers Dept. Store that later became Macy’s. Trudi married Vince Skiff in 1980 but their marriage was brief as he was taken home to be with the Lord in 1983.

Trudi grew up in the Roman Catholic Church. After moving to Florida Presbyterian Homes, in 2005, she began attending their chapel services. When she was able, Trudi enjoyed volunteering at the Homes. She attended Clown School in Pinellas County and loved participating in volunteer clown activities and events.

Trudi was especially fond of shared times with family- sister, Marge, nieces, Rose Boyer, Jackie Hansen and Emily Cecchine, and nephew, Walt Boyer. In later years, she enjoyed time with great-nieces and nephews as well and their children.

Her many loves were family and friends, the beautiful Florida beaches, music and playing games, dominoes, Skip-Bo and Rummikub.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 12, at 2:00PM at Florida Presbyterian Homes Chapel.

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Florida Presbyterian Homes Loving Care Fund at fphi.org