Lakesider Michael Pecoraro
One of Lakeside’s most inspiring traditions aligned with the Religious Pillar is Sunday evening’s Sunset Praise. Led by John and Bonnie Wilkie, the gathering brings Lakesiders of all ages to the Pavilion West Deck for beautiful music, fellowship and a breathtaking sunset — a meaningful way to prepare for the week ahead.
At the beginning of a recent gathering, a gentleman slowly stood beside his guide dog and turned to face those assembled. With a somber expression and his hand over his heart, he spoke about the importance of Sunset Praise, the Wilkies and the lasting impact this cherished Lakeside tradition has had on his family.
He explained that Sunset Praise had been his wife’s favorite part of their annual summer visits to Lakeside. He was attending that evening in honor of her birthday and in remembrance of her passing. His extended family had traveled from Texas, continuing a multigenerational tradition of making treasured memories together at Lakeside.
As an expression of gratitude to John and Bonnie, they invited everyone attending Sunset Praise to an impromptu gathering of pizza and soda at WB Pizza Company following sunset.
We later learned that the gentleman was Jim Skelton and that his beloved wife was Betty Boyd Skelton — a loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother, and loyal friend to many. Betty went home to be with the Lord on Oct. 13, 2024, and this was the family’s first visit together since her passing.
During the gathering at WB Pizza, Jim and his daughter, Carrie Holcomb, shared a book of memories assembled in Betty’s honor. It included some of her favorite recipes and several reflections on her summers at Lakeside, including a tribute to her grandchildren and the special tradition of her “Lakeside Surprise Balls.”
Popular in the 1950s, surprise balls became one of Betty’s favorite ways to delight her grandchildren during the family’s summer visits. Using colorful rolls of crepe paper streamers, she lovingly created a large ball for each grandchild, with a special gift hidden inside. She delighted in their excitement — and even in the colorful mess that unfolded downstairs in the family cottage.
Moments like these capture the true magic of Lakeside: the memories families treasure for generations, the traditions that bind them together and the special people who keep that magic alive for those yet to come.
Pictured from left, Boyde Holcomb, John Wilkie, Bonnie Wilkie, Boyd Skelton, Jim Skelton and Oliver Skelton at post-Sunset Praise pizza party
