Sadly the family announce the passing of Wayne Skirten, age 70, on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at La Verendrye Hospital in Fort Frances, Ontario, with his family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer.
Wayne was born and raised in Fort Frances and spent the majority of his 40 year career working in the local paper mill in maintenance and then retiring as an oiler in 2013. During this time he left the mill for a few years and worked in Thunder Bay at the shipyards after attending school to become a welder.
Wayne was a loving, caring, kind and gentle man who lived a simple life with gratitude. In his early years he helped his dad in the bush at Flinders and spent many hours on the lake with the Tuckers. He was a nature lover who enjoyed watching the birds and wildlife, gardening and especially his daily walks with his cat Taffy. He also enjoyed baking and sharing his famous butter tarts. Nascar racing was something Wayne liked to watch on the weekends.
He will be forever loved and missed by his devoted wife of 49 years Shirley Skirten; siblings Sheila Anness, Bev Angus (Gary), Ruby (Jack) Johnson, Linda Chepil, Sandy Skirten, Raymond Skirten (Jackie), Roger (Kathy) Skirten, Sheldon (Sue) Skirten; as well as countless nieces and nephews and his good friends Mark Lafleur and Keith Fifield.
He was predeceased by his parents Art and Irene Skirten; brothers-in-law Richard Skirten, Larry Angus and Don Anness; sisters-in-law Nadine, Linda and Carolyn Skirten; and in-laws David and Evelyn Allan.
We would also like to recognize the staff at the Riverside Health Facility who have provided excellent care and friendship. A special thank you to the staff at the Chemotherapy Department as well as Dr. Laxton. We can never thank you enough for the care and compassion you have shown. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Best for Kitty in Care of Northridge Funeral Home or by visiting www.bestforkitty.net.
A private family gathering will take place at a later date.
We will always carry your memory in our hearts and we will miss you so very much.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
