Old barn wood is getting a new purpose in Buda, Illinois. In his shop, Ron Skaggs turns reclaimed lumber into something few farming families ever expect to plan for: a custom casket. His handmade coffins give families a deeply personal way to honor loved ones.
“I wanted the families to be able to represent the person the best that they could,” Skaggs said.
The Illinois woodworker and his wife run Cole Creek Creations. Skaggs said the wood comes from old barns across northwestern Illinois, including some dating to the 1890s. The boards line the corners of his shed, ready for another chapter.
Skaggs, a former truck driver and construction specialist, said he used to tear down old barns for farmers. Now, he gives the wood a second life.
“We don’t waste any, because barn wood has gotten kinda rare and expensive, and so you have to make good use of everything,” he said. “The reason I use these is because all of the character. They have old rusty nails in them and stuff. You just can’t get that with anything else.”
A casket with character, and a keepsake to keep
Skaggs began his woodworking journey building cabinets with his father. Since 2010, he has built more than 430 coffins. It can take about 50 hours to build one.
Each casket weighs about 120 pounds and is handmade using only U.S.- sourced materials.
Skaggs also makes detachable handles for the coffins, along with picture displays families can keep after the funeral.
“When it’s all over, I’m just gonna give them something they can hold on to forever. That they can never be taken away,” Skaggs said.
Partner Project
His wife, Brenda, helps shape the final product by designing the interiors. She’s created 10 unique options, including one with scripture.
“Sometimes it’s kind of tough to do these. My son just lost his best friend a year ago, and he told my son he wanted it before he passed. So when you get those, those are a little tough. Unfortunately, they aren’t very often,” she said.
Even in grief, Skaggs sees purpose. “Perfect for my husband” is the best compliment he’s received. Skaggs has families come back time and time again for another one of his caskets.
“When you see the family face to face, and they’re in tears, and they tell you how much they appreciate what you’ve done, I mean, that’s better than money.” He continued, “Money don’t mean nothing...You need do something with your life somebody will remember.”
