Dr. Skelley was born and raised in Maquoketa, Iowa. He is a graduate of Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in May, 1974. He received his doctorate degree in Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago in 1978. He has been providing primary optometric care with an emphasis on contact lenses in Davenport at the Eye Care Pavilion three days a week, and also at his private practice in Maquoketa. Dr. Skelley is a member of the Iowa and the American Optometric Associations and the Mississippi Valley Optometric Society.

Dr. Skelley and his wife, Helen, reside in Bettendorf with their son. They are active members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Davenport. His interests include reading and spectator sports.