F. Arthur “Art” Sketchley
F. Arthur Sketchley “Art” passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on January 29, 2022 at the age of 93. He was born in Saugus, MA on December 24, 1928. Son of Shirley (Graham) and Frederick A. Sketchley. Beloved husband of 47 years to the late Sara Ann (Hudson) Sketchley, he will be greatly missed by his daughter, Debra Thompson, his son, John D. Sketchley, his grandchildren, H. John Thompson and Nicole MacNeill (Shaun) and his great grandchildren, Walden and Elvin. Brother of the late Walter Sketchley and Dana Sketchley.
Art worked for numerous Philadelphia area bakeries prior to opening Sketchley’s Bakery in Feasterville in 1959 alongside Sara Ann which was open until his retirement in 2011. He enjoyed being a part of the community and loved getting to know his customers and their children and grandchildren. He baked and decorated countless wedding and birthday cakes over the years. He could be heard whistling in the early morning hours as he baked off danish, cakes, breads, especially rye bread, and his famous butter cake.
Art was a proud Korean War-era veteran of the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Bliss, TX and Fort Sheridan, IL. He was a 50+ year member of the Houseman Masonic Lodge in Somerton, served as President of the Philadelphia Master Baker’s Association and caught the thoroughbred racing bug at one of their outings at Liberty Bell Race Track. Never one to stand on the sidelines, he was “all in” claiming horses, learning to shoe and eventually getting his Trainer’s license. Art and his family and friends had many exciting days at the track together, especially watching Positive Pete who would be last at the top of the stretch and then go into overdrive to win the race!
Art truly loved and enjoyed every minute of his life!
His Funeral Services and interment were held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. 3551 N. Broad St. Phila, PA 19140. www,fluehr.com
Posted online on February 05, 2022
Published in Bucks County Courier Times
