It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Raymond Skirten of Fort Frances. After a recent diagnosis of cancer, Ray passed away peacefully in his home on October 27, 2025 at the age of 74.
He will be lovingly remembered by his partner Jackie Hagen; daughter Melissa (Craig Gagne); grandchildren Ben, Nora, Ethan (Madison Hagen), and Ryden; great-grandchild Vera; brothers Sheldon (Sue), Roger (Kathy), and Sandy; sisters Sheila Anness, Bev Angus, Ruby (Jack) Johnson, and Linda Chepil; sisters-in-law Shirley and Barb (John) Cobey; cousin Lorainne Huntley; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He is predeceased by this loving wife Nadine; daughter Mandy; brothers Richard and Wayne; sister-in-law Carolyn; brothers-in-law Don Anness and Larry Angus; and parents Art and Irene.
After working for the Town of Fort Frances for over 30 years, Ray enjoyed managing the Aspen House apartment complex. When he wasn’t mowing the lawn or shovelling, Ray was outside on his deck or at the trailer in Dryden soaking in the sun or admiring the sunset. Always the entertainer, Ray kept the fridge stocked with beverages and the cupboard filled with treats in case he had visitors. He had also become quite the cook and prepared turkey and ham for his family and friends at every major holiday. Ray was generous with this time and knowledge and was always lending a hand to family and friends with odd jobs, home renovations or landscaping projects. Known for his sharp wit, unwavering memory, and hardworking nature, Ray will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
To support Ray’s desire to see his grandchildren pursue an education, memorial donations can be made to their registered education savings plans by e-transferring Melissa at missyskirten@hotmail.com. Please add a note in the comments to indicate it is a memorial donation.
At Ray’s request, no service will be held.
“You will always be in my heart…because in there you’re still alive.” – Jamie Cirello
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
