Former environment, commerce secretary John Skvarla dies

Madeline Gray—North State Journal
FILE PHOTO: Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce John Skvarla speaks at an event.

John E. Skvarla, III passed away in Pinehurst on Tuesday, July 19.

A highly successful lawyer and business executive, Skvarla led two cabinet agencies after his lengthy private sector career.

As North Carolina’s environmental secretary, he brought his expertise in management and love for the environment to reform his agency and protect North Carolina’s natural resources. He also served as Secretary of Commerce and was a champion for jobs and improving the state’s business climate.

Following his state government service, Skvarla was an attorney with Nexsen Pruet where he focused on economic development and corporate law.

He is survived by his wife, Liz, two children, and three grandchildren.