IRENE SKIRTEN

With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of Irene Skirten.
Surrounded by her children, Irene, 94, passed away Friday, April 26, 2013 at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances, Ont.
Mom was born April 15, 1919 on the Shaw farm in Gilbert Plains, Man. to Richard and Elizabeth (nee Allan) Shaw. She attended Tanner School and later moved to Fort Frances, where she spent her entire life.
Irene married Arthur Skirten and together they had 10 children, who, in turn, had their own families, giving them numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren to cherish.
They resided and raised their family in the east end of town for 40 years, then moved to Flinders Apartments, which became home for the next 24 years.
Mom was very active and enjoyed gardening, bowling, cards, and crocheting, and was ready at the drop of a hat to go wherever the fun was. Mom had the most beautiful infectious smile; you just had to smile back.
She was a strong, courageous woman of great faith. She lived a healthy lifestyle even before it became fashionable, and walked many miles a day to keep herself in shape.
She was a quiet, modest, hard-working woman who saw the best in everyone. Mom was very grateful and would say, “Thank you, dear, I appreciate everything you do for me.”
Mom’s family meant the world to her, and that bond only increased during her time at Rainycrest.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Sheila (Don) Anness, Bev (Larry) Angus, Sheldon (Sue), Raymond (Linda), Wayne (Shirley), Ruby (Jack) Johnson, Roger (Kathy), Linda (Dave) Chepil, and Sandy (Carolyn).
Also surviving are her grandchildren, Sharon, Bonnie, Nancy, Shauna, Justin, Tina, Jason, Sheldon Jr., Sherry, Missy, Mandy, Brenden, Spencer, Breeah, Kasey, Joel, Karly, Andy, Bryson, and Chelsey; and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her special niece, Lorraine Huntley.
She was predeceased by her parents, Elizabeth and Richard Shaw; husband, Arthur Skirten; son, Richard; daughter-in-law, Nadine; brothers, Allan, Hughie, and Wentzel Shaw; and sisters, Luella Childs, Ariel Cardiff, Maryan White, and Opal Agar.
A private family service will be held at the Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Frances.
Interment will take place in Riverview Cemetery in Fort Frances at a later date.
Mom’s wish is for everyone to reach out and do an act of kindness in her honour.
In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to the Rainycrest Auxiliary c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
 For all of us you gave your best
Now the time has come for you to rest
So go in peace you’ve earned your sleep
Your love in our hearts we’ll eternally keep.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com