Christopher "Chris" Jon Skovira

Christopher “Chris” Skovira, 60, of Turin, NY, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, in La Mesa, CA, after a brief but aggressive battle with cancer.

Chris was born on December 18, 1964, in Port Jefferson, NY, and grew up on Long Island before relocating to Delaware County, NY, in his early teens. It was there that he developed a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in nature and cherished his time in the woods.

He and his wife, Trish, owned and operated LaBella Pizza in Delhi, NY, for 16 years. Chris took great pride in feeding his community and in the relationships, he built with both customers and the young employees he mentored. After selling LaBella’s in 2002, Chris transitioned to law enforcement and began a second career as a police dispatcher for the SUNY system. He especially valued his years at Delaware County Sheriff Office, and SUNY Oneonta, where he built strong friendships and felt honored to support the campus community.

Chris faced his cancer diagnosis with strength and determination. Discovered in March, the disease progressed quickly, bringing unexpected challenges and complications along the way. He pursued every available path—enduring procedures, treatments, and long hospital stays—in a relentless effort to gain more time with his family and create lasting memories.

Though his final weeks were marked by physical hardship, Chris remained mentally strong. His final days were spent surrounded by family, holding onto the love that carried him through.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife of almost 38 years, Trish Skovira; his daughter Ashley Aubin and her husband Case, and their children Riley, Bodhi, August, and Maisie; and his son Christopher Skovira Jr. He is also survived by his father, Joseph Skovira, and his brothers: Michael Skovira and wife Roxanne, and their children John and Monique; and Peter Skovira and wife Terry, and their sons: Mike (with wife Emily, and children Luke, Grady, and Maddie), Kyle (with partner Lou), and Jonathan (with wife Brooke). He was preceded in death by his mother, Yvonne Skovira, in 2006.

In retirement, Chris built his happy place in the North Country, where he and Trish made a home in Turin, NY. He spent his days doing what he loved most—hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, riding his motorcycle, and simply enjoying the peace of the outdoors.

Chris will be remembered for his strong presence, his deep loyalty, and his sense of humor. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met and lived a life rooted in community, nature, and grit.

As we say goodbye, we extend our deepest thanks to the many friends and loved ones who have supported our family through this journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 27, 2025, in Turin, NY, during his favorite season—fall. More details will be shared as the date approaches.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Chris’ honor to Turin Ridge Riders, PO Box 235, Turin, NY 13473 or Lewis County Humane Society, PO Box 682. Lowville, NY 13367.