Connie (Skulmoski) Pritchett

            Connie Pritchett, age 64 passed away February 15, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on April 26, 1959, she brought immense joy to those around her.

            Connie is predeceased by her father, Edward Skulmoski, Mother Isabell Skulmoski, sister Wendy Sokolan, and brothers Gus and Clayton Skulmoski. She is survived by her sisters Beverly, Ann, and husband Norm, Shirley and husband Mel, and brother Lyle and wife Lisa. Connie had a special bond with many of her nieces and nephews; Nolan and Carson Sokolan, Cody and Jenna Skulmoski, Jake and Teigan Molnar, Alli Lake, Monica Anderson, Melissa and Don Cassidy, Jody Sutherland and Wesley Keim. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Bella.

            Connie is also survived by many loving friends who will forever hold dear her memory. She will be remembered for her kindness, compassion, and the positive impact she had on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

            Connie grew up on a small farm in Pine River, Manitoba, Canada. There she learned skills that would develop her entrepreneurial spirit and build a strong work ethic that carried throughout her life. Growing up on the farm, she and her family got up early to milk cows and feed the sheep, chickens, pigs, and horses all before leaving for school. In the summer, vegetable gardens were tended, and driving tractors and helping Dad was a cherished memory.

            At age 18, Connie left the farm, worked hard, and saved even harder. At age 20, she was able to take a year off work and sail with a friend across the Atlantic, 2000 miles from France to Barbados. They encountered treacherous storms with 16-foot waves, requiring them to stay harnessed to the boat in fear of falling overboard. During these adventures, Connie developed a passion for cooking which she then turned into a career as a chef.  She received a culinary degree from Peter Kump’s Cooking School in New York. With this degree, she worked for various famous people such as the country singer, musician, and actress Barbara Mandrell, Mrs. Kroc the wife of Ray Kroc, the founder of McDonalds on their private yachts. Through her job, she has been able to travel around the world to many beautiful locations.

            At age 29, Connie purchases a beautiful townhome in the world-famous ski resort town of Whistler, British Columbia beginning her dream of a real estate business. While continuing to work as a chef, in her off time she researched new properties, buying, and fixing them up, some she flipped and others she used as rental properties.

            Connie had an adventurous spirit which led her to earn her single-engine pilot's license which became another passion of hers. She purchased a beautiful 5-acre apple orchard by Lake Okanogan and property at Lake Tahoe on the border of Nevada and California which she later sold.

            In 1998, Connie relocated to California where she worked as a personal chef/flight attendant for Howard Lester, former CEO of William Sonoma. She even helped design the interiors of 2 of his private jets.

            At age 54, Connie only worked part-time, and by age 56, she retired completely. Connie continued to flip homes and eventually made her way to Alto, New Mexico where she eventually decided to spend her retirement.  She spent her retirement hiking, dirt biking, and downhill ski racing. She also enjoyed photography, diving, and sailing.

            Connie’s journey touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of strength and resilience. Her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew her.

            As Connie requested, cremation has already taken place and a celebration of life will be held at Dauphin First United Church and Auditorium, on Saturday, July 20th,2024 at 11:00 am, with lunch to follow.  Her ashes will be laid to rest at Whistler Scattering Garden in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 1:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.