Jonathan Skow, husband of designer Trina Turk, and designer of the colorfully bold Mr. Turk, has died. The designer suffered a spinal cord injury in Hawaii over Labor Day weekend as he was bodysurfing according to the Hollywood Reporter. He died at the age of 55 on Friday after complications.
With boutiques in Los Angeles, Miami, Palm Springs, New York, Atlanta, and more—the Mr. Turk brand represented light and the Southern California easiness that the husband and wife designers loved. The brand was created in 2008 after Skow began spending his time away from being a photographer on the line.
Many celebrities, including notables in the LGBTQ+ community, were huge supporters of the Mr. Turk brand. Personalities such as Andy Cohen, Ross Mathews, Jonathan Adler, and Titus Burgess appreciated the unique styles Mr. Turk created. Just this year, actors Jeffery Self and Augustus Prew tied the knot in custom Mr. Turk suits.
Media icon and funny man Ross Mathews shared his heartfelt sentiments online about his great friend:
The Palm Springs Desert Sun released a statement provided by a spokesperson for Trina Turk. Portions of the statement include the following:
Jonathan Skow’s big, beautiful life ended on Friday, October 12, 2018 in Los Angeles with his family by his side. He was doing what he loved, bodysurfing in the ocean, when he suffered a devastating spinal cord injury on Labor Day in Hawaii. He dealt boldly and bravely with the severity of his injury. The accident was preceded by “an extraordinary life,” in his own words. He was 55.
The quintessential bon vivant, his generosity, infectious zest for life, boisterous laugh, wit and bold glasses were signature trademarks. The world loved his exuberance and positive outlook, as he lit up spirits and shared his joy abundantly. His friends galore adored him.
A true design visionary, in addition to photography and clothing design, Jonathan was also an open water swimmer, restorer of historic homes, architecture aficionado, amateur landscape designer, philanthropist, beekeeper, chef, and life-of-the-party, entertaining his entourages in Los Feliz and Palm Springs. His creativity and spirit were wild, free and spontaneous.
Jonathan has always loved the ocean and was an enthusiastic member of the West Hollywood Aquatics (WH2O) Masters swimming club.
Described by many as a powerful force of nature, his final exit was accompanied by an epic thunder and lightning storm over Los Angeles.
He is survived by his wife Trina, mother Barbara, brother Nathan (Luanne). He is preceded in death by his father Harold.
Jonathan’s simple advice: Have fun and enjoy your life. A Celebration of Life will take place at a future date.
h/t: Hollywood Reporter, Palm Springs Desert Sun
