Good guy! Tough but fair. I had several learning disabilities, he took his time with kids like me. R.I.P.

I never had the honor of having Mr. Skarbek as my fourth grade teacher, but I was in the classroom right next to him. I remember always walking by his class. When the door was open, I would stare in with awe at all the exciting things he had in there, and just knowing I was missing so much not being a student of his. I also remember his plays. My sister had him in fourth grade, and to this very day I remember her lines from Cinderella which is what they shared with us all that year. Wishing all your loved ones and former students happy memories of the wonderful and amazing ways you touched so many.

Mr. Skarbek was my 4th grade teacher at Esten Elementary School eleven years ago. He always pushed for creativity, having us write scripts based on short stories and encouraging classroom performances. Mr. Skarbek gave me my first leading role as Clara in The Nutcracker which sparked my love of theater. Since then, I've been in several productions with Norwel Company Theater and Massasoit Community College. I was voted "Most Likely to be Famous" in both 7th grade and senior year, which I truly believe I owe to Mr. Edward Skarbek's inspiring assignments and direction within the Storytime Playhouse. He lived across the street from my parents in Hanover, and I loved beeping my car horn when I'd see him mowing his lawn on a spring afternoon. Mr. Skarbek was always a force to be reckoned with, he expected the best from his students both in the classroom and on stage. He shared his love of nature by bringing us to the Peace Garden whenever he could, and I'll never forget the excitement brought on by walking by the endangered Lady Slipper plant. In the timeless words of William Shakespeare, "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts" Thank you, Mr. Skarbek, for being an amazing teacher, an enthusiastic director, and an inspirational man. May you rest in peace.

I met Mr. Skarbek in 1967. We were his first or second fourth grade class at Lincoln School. To say he was a memorable figure is an understatement. Long before computers and all of the technology of today, he opened the world to us. I still remember sitting in his classroom on the first floor watching the lunar landing. It seems so incredible now, but there we were riveted to watching history in the making with a teacher who would go on to create a history all his own in this small but very grateful town. I am proud to say those friendships that formed 43 years ago, are still very much a part of my life today. He would have to break up the chattering girls, Sharon, Christie, Lisa, Maura and myself on more than one occasion. I still remember spelling the word hypothesis correctly during a spelling bee. Seems so silly all these years later... He was a remarkable teacher who touched the lives of countless students and teachers with whom he worked. I am grateful and thankful.

Simply stated, Ed Skarbek changed my life with an egg. Like many others, I have memories of walking into his fourth-grade classroom on the first day of school, ducking from the fish nets hanging from the ceiling, stepping over paper-mache volcanoes that were erupting with baking soda and vinegar, climbing over ladders and crawling through tee-pees just to get to my desk. He was the first male teacher I ever had, and the most creative teacher I can ever remember. I was fortunate enough to be cast in the lead role in many of his first plays, including "Sherlock Holmes," "Rumplestiltskin," "The Hare & The Tortoise," and others. Throughout the years I was involved with the "Jefferson Playhouse" (before moving to the Jr. High), I received three of his very first best actor "Golden Egg Awards," Ed's version of the Oscar's. They were life-sized goose eggs, made of spun brass, in honor of the play "Rumplestiltskin," which, in Ed's version of the story, instead of spinning straw to gold, the goose who laid the Golden Egg happened to stop by. This was the very first award I had ever won - for anything. Thirty-five years later, I still cherish my "Golden Eggs." My interest in the performing arts began before I met Mr. Skarbek, with singing, acting, ventriloquism, dancing and magic. However, it was Mr. Skarbek who first told me that I could actually follow my dreams to become a professional entertainer. Others mocked the dreams, a few tried to discourage the. But it was because of Ed Skarbek's encouragement, and winning that first "Golden Egg" that I followed that dream, and now perform around the globe as a professional magician. As I grew into adulthood, I would periodically stop by and visit Ed's school, and perform a magic show for the student body. He was always smiling in the back of the room, knowing that when the show ended, I would make a special trip to his classroom to visit with his current crop of students. He was so proud when I would visit. He would te

I had Mr. Skarbek in the fourth grade at least 30 years ago.. I can honestlly say i don't remember all my teachers that i had back then.. But Mr. skarbek was not one u would forget.. I remember everyone wanted to be in his class, he was fun and interesting. I think he left lasting impressions with everyone he taught! Rest in Peace.

I knew Ed through St. Francis and was involved in the Genesian Players with him. He was always a kind man who had a quick wit. He will be missed by many. May the memories of those who knew Ed bring comfort during this difficult time. RIP Ed.... God BLess!

It is such a sad loss to lose such a wonderful teacher !! His Values and life long work will continue to live threw his students !! I was privileged to have had him as my forth grade teacher . I will always have special memories of him .

My deepist sympathy to his friends and family members. I was a 4th grad student 35 years ago and will never forget what a great teacher he was. My prayers are with you all.

Mr. Skarbek was one of my favorite teachers. I still remember to this day his passion for the arts that he shared with us through plays and the lessons he gave us. I feel truly blessed to have been one of your students and have taken the lessons you have taught me through my life's journey.

We've lost a great teacher. I'll always have fond memories of being a student in one of his Jefferson School 4th grade classes. RIP, Mr. Skarbek.

I had Mr. Skarbek in 4th grade. He was an amazing teacher and an amazing director. He was the one who got me into drama and being in plays. He will be greatly missed.

I had him as a fourth grade teacher and I always respected him. It wasn't until the death of my grandfather, whom he knew through Masons, that I realized how big of an impact he had on my life. He did the Masonic Service for my grandfather, word for word and I realized then how big of an impact he had on my life. I will miss him greatly.

Mr. Skarbek was my fourth grade teacher at Jefferson School and one of the greatest teachers that I ever had. I remember being a shy 9 year old in a male teachers classroom, a strict one at that. I also remember chairs flying but he always got his point across and it was never uncalled for. As students, we learned quickly what was expected of us and as a result he made wonderful, lasting impressions on all of us. I also remember being in the Cinderella play and like I said being a shy child it was an accomplishment that would have never been achieved without Mr. Skarbek. Mr Skarbek was a great teacher for many years and gave alot of his personal time for us. I am saddened by the fact that he was unable to enjoy many years of retirement after putting so much time into his students and career. May you rest in peace. Charlene Evans (Tanzi)

THE GENESIAN PLAYERS OF ST. FRANCIS XAVIER PARISH WERE TRUELY BLESSED BY ED'S JOYFUL, DEDICATED INVOLVEMENT IN OUR PRODUCTIONS. NO MATTER HOW SMALL HIS ROLE OR HOW TEDIOUS THE REHEARSAL, ED'S ATTITUDE WAS ALWAYS UPBEAT AND SUPPORTIVE. AND YOU COULD ALWAYS COUNT ON ED TO BRING A SPECIAL FLAIR TO ANY ROLE HE PLAYED. REST IN PEACE ED. YOU BRIGHTENED OUR DAYS.

The world is a little less bright for the passing of Ed Skarbek, and I feel a personal sense of loss. Like David, Mr. Skarbek's Jefferson School Playhouse had a profound effect on me. While I didn't pursue a career in show business, the lessons I learned while involved in his shows are lessons I carry in my heart today and try and pass on to my kids, and my Cub Scouts. Practice, Preparation, Perseverence, Commitment, Follow-through, Passion, and a tireless advocate for children and challenging them to make more of themselves and to give of themselves to others; These are all things that Ed Skarbek taught to me both in the classroom and onstage. My sister and I still laugh at my dragging her to school early so I would work on the sets for the shows. I kept all my scripts, programs, as many posters as I could...the "star" that Mr. Skarbek put up on the wall with my name in it, and my parents still have my Rumplestiltskin costume....and my golden egg too. So while these things are mine, I will look upon them and think of Mr. Skarbek, and bless him for the care and concern that he took with, what was once, a shy boy who he taught to face an audience, speak with clarity and volume and to give 110%. "He was a man, take him for all and all, I shall not look upon his like again." - Hamlet, Act. 1, Scene 2 Rest in peace Mr. Skarbek.

I spent many fun years teaching grade four at the Esten School across the hall from Ed. You never knew what he'd do from day to day. On birthdays he would march his class through your room waving a sparkler and singing at the top of his lungs. On Halloween there was the gorilla popping out at you at the most unexpected time. And you could always expect a funny story or joke from Ed at lunch, though he would usually laugh so much while telling it that he could never quite get to the punch line! His creativity and energy in the classroom was boundless, and he was always a team player willing to share his wonderful ideas with others. His students loved him , as did his colleagues. It was less than a year ago that we celebrated Ed's retirement. How sad that he didn't live longer to enjoy a much deserved rest. But now he is in his glory entertaining the angels. Rest in peace my friend. Ellen Lauria

Mr. Skarbek was my fourth grade teacher back in 1970 at Lincoln School in Rockland. Every morning I would sit at the kitchen window with my coat on ready to fly out the door when I saw the flash of his red shiny convertible. Mr. Skarbeck made fourth grade year more intresting than any other class. He is the reason why I am so intrested astronomy. When my sister told me that Ed had passed I felt such a sadness. Even as I write about my memory of him my eyes are filling up. Mr. Skarbeck has been such a mentor to so many students. He will be missed by so many of us. Everyone has a favorite teacher they remember and Mr Skarbek will always be mine. Lauri (Alford) Reynolds

We just learned of Ed's passing through his Christmas card being returned. Ed was/is a gentleman foremost, was artistic and organized, caring and thoughtful. Ed as a teacher who let others know what how what a true-blue friend should be. I will miss Ed's presence; Rest in Peace. Geo/West

Mr. Skarbek was my fourth grade teacher about five years ago. He always has everything that had to do with science. The days I remember most was when we had our science fair. We all had to make the molecules of a substance. Everyday he would take out new things for us like animal bones and feathers. He was a great science teacher and we will all miss him.

he was a great science teacher. i was in the 4th and 5th grade talent show. in the 4th grade talent show, i played "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynard Skynard on the guitar by myself. in the 5th grade one, i played with a song called "Wipe Out" with a kid named joe cook. he was on the drums and i was on the guitar. when we played for the school, i threw out my pick. he had yelled at me "What did you throw?" and i said "my guitar pick." i will never forget that day, even though he yelled at me for throwing my guitar pick. he was a great teacher. for anybody related to Mr. Skarbek, i am so sorry for his loss 🙁

My three daughters attented Esten school in Rockland Ma. Although none of my children had Mr. Skarbeck as their main teacher soemtimes they would switch classes so they would have him for a subject. My youngest daughter now age 13 was in one of the plays. She was in Charlie and the Chocolate factory .She had a small part in the play and really seemed to enjoy being a part of the play. He was a good teacher! RIP Mr Skarbeck!

Mr. Skarbeck was a teacher who wanted only the best for his students. I have fond memories of play practices,and he was my fourth grade teacher in '87-'88. What a special person he was. He will be miss by so many people.

Mr. Skarbek was my favorite teacher. I was blessed to be in his fourth grade class and particiapte in his plays. He instilled a work ethic in every student he encountered. "Always try your best and practice, practice, practice!" Mr. Skarbeck also inspired creativity in every subject he taught. His classroom was always the "best dressed" and it made learning so much fun. God Bless you Mr. Skarbeck, I can only imagine the plays you are putting on in Heaven. With much Love Nancy - former student 1984

I had Mr. Skarbec in the 5th grade at Jefferson School. I have always remembered him coming into the classroom singing "It's a Beautiful Morning" by the Rascals and also during lunch, it would be him and Miss Wallace that you could hear laughing above all the chatter of us students. Rest in Peace, Mr. Skarbec.

My most recent memory of Ed was when I substitute taught in the room next to his several years ago. I worked with him in the early 70s and didn't see him again until I was back at Esten School . During a break I sat in on his class and was in awe of his skill. I remember telling friends who knew him what a master teacher I thought he was.. someone to learn from and just enjoy watching in his classroom. He was an avid gardener and loved to share tips with anyone - and I needed his tips. Morris and I knew him as a decent and good man who will be missed by all his family, friends and former students. RIP ED Susan Lelyveld

I really loved Mr. Skarbek, he was my fourth grade teacher and there are a few memories of him that are still very prominent in my mind to this day. I'm nineteen now, and it's been ten years since I had last seen my fourth grade teacher but these memories, I think, won't ever leave me. He was very serious about keeping his students focused and concentrated on their work, but I was never a very good worker in elementary school. I used to draw a lot; there was one afternoon while he was reading to us and I was drawing something in my notebook (God knows I can't remember what it was), and he suddenly stopped reading. He came to my desk and peered over my shoulder to see what I had been doing. Then he took my notebook and said, "this is some great work!", and he had passed my notebook around to all of the students in my class to see. When he gave me my book back, he said, "that's very nice and I believe you've got some artistic talent. But when I'm teaching you something, I would like for you to listen to me." He was never mean, but found other, nicer ways to get his students to concentrate. I was in a few of his talent shows, and one play. I was a spy in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". My on-stage job was to come up to each child and whisper something in their ear. I was nervous about being on stage in front of an audience, so Mr. Skarbek told me that I might feel better if when it was my turn to enter, I whispered something silly into my friends' ears. It worked, and it had everyone in tears with laughter. Mr. Skarbek was always one of my favorite teachers. He was really something. He nominated a poem I had written into a "Celebration of Young Poets" book. I got to go into Faneuil Hall and read my poem there, too. He always made his students feel very special, and that's something I'll always remember. Rest in peace, Mr. Skarbek! I hope you'd be proud of who I am today.

I had Mr. Skarbek for fourth grade when we switched classes a few times a day. I had him for science, geography/social studies, and he taught us a little Spanish. Mr. Skarbek was one of the funniest and one of the nicest people I've ever met. He always had something funny to say to us and more times than not, our class would erupt into laughter at every joke he told. He made learning more enjoyable than your standard text-book teacher. I learned a lot from him, educationally and morally, and I really enjoyed having him as a teacher. Mr. Skarbek inspired me to join drama and continue through high-school. I'm currently in my freshman year at RHS and I am actively involved in drama productions by doing technical work regarding lights and mics/music/sound. I had acted, but I suffer from stage fright. When I did act, I acted with him as director. He was patient, understanding, and worked with us to help us be the best we could be. Our plays were always a success because of the work he did to make it successful. He never showed any sign of frustration or anger when something went wrong. Mr. Skarbek, you will be missed by everybody that ever met you. I'm honored to have been able to know you, to have been one of your many students, and to have been able to act with you as director in Story Time Playhouse.

As I quietly sat in the funeral home today, all the memories of Mr. Skarbek's 1977-78 4th grade class came rushing back. I remember each day as I walked through the door he would call me Angie Baby. How he would walk us down to recess swaying and singing; shoe, shoe, wa, wa, tinkle. He would tell us to make sure our shoes were tied, get a drink of water and you know what the latter means. How he would chase Ms. Durand around her classroom and we’d all watch and laugh. I too remember the chair throwing episodes, thankfully I was not the cause. However, I can remember being the recipient of a few erasers off the head. In those days it was fine and you knew he did it so you’d pay attention to learn life’s lessons. As another former student mentioned, he did care about the community. I remember an assignment in which we had to go into our small town of Rockland and present an oral report of what we discovered. I remember mine was visiting the Highway Department and I thought it was so cool that I had the opportunity to make a road sign. Even after I had left Jefferson he did contact me on a few occasions to see how I was doing. When I graduated from high school (1986) he sent me a beautiful graduation card (I still have today) and noted he was sorry that he was going to be away and he couldn’t be there to share in my success, but I would be in his thoughts. That was the kind of teacher he was. He never forgot his students and was always proud of our accomplishments. He taught us many lessons that we’ll have forever. Rest in peace Mr. Skarbek, you’ll always be my favorite teacher!

Mr. Skarbek was my favorite teacher!! 4th grade was great and is it from that grade that i remember so much. All the plays we did and his unique way of teaching were unforgettable. ill never forget the time we were learning about other cultures and each day that week he came in dressed as someone from a different country. you will be sadly missed. xoxooxo

I remember Mr. Skarbek as a very strict, but fair teacher. Little did we all know back then that his strictness would serve us well as we entered the world. For that I thank him and all of the teachers and mentors like him whom I've encountered along the way. He helped make me better. Derek M. (Owens) Guirand, MD (PS...I can still very clearly hear his voice indicating that recess was over).

Mr. Scarbek was my fourth grade teacher as well, as a quiet and shy girl (back then) I was afraid of him, but I cannot remember his anger or frustration ever being towards me, he was always nice to me. There are so few teachers in my life I want to remember, that the ones that do stay with me, will never be forgotten. Thank You for being such a bright light in my life.......RIP Mr. Scarbek!

We knew Ed as a fellow parishioner at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Weymouth. We usually attended the Sat. evening Mass with him where he frequently served as a Eucharistic minister. We also have fond memories of Ed as we shared his interest in community theatre through participation in the Genesians - a theatre group at St. Francis in past years. To us Ed was always a caring, gentle man who served others well and touched so many throughout his life. Ed, we will miss you. Marge & John

Mr. Skarbek was a techer whom I will never forget. My condolences to his friends and family. May you find solace in the thought that he has found peace.