On September 29, 2015, in his 65th year, while serving Jesus and providing eyecare to those in need in Harbu Chulule, Ethiopia, Rick was unexpectedly taken to his heavenly home before learning he had Leukemia.
Loving husband of Barbara (nee Haslam), his wife of 42 years. Devoted father of Matthew Skinner (Diana) and Leanne Ferris (Chris). Proud grandfather of Elliot, Judah and Allegra Skinner; Lily Ferris and his fifth grandchild expected in November. Faithful brother of Catherine Matteson and her son Kevin (Erin). Brother-in-law to Linda Haslam-Stroud (Murray Stroud) and Michael Haslam (Valerie); son-in-law of Joyce Haslam; and encouraging uncle of Adele Churchill (Dan), Amy Stroud (Colin Bartlett), Ryan Haslam (Nicole Bernard), and Brent Haslam. Great-uncle to Ryder, Kensi, Hudson, Aryana, Lyla, and Octavia.
Rick became a Licensed Optician in 1973 and worked alongside his father, Gordon Skinner, wife, Barbara, on John Street North at Skinner Opticians, their family practice. Rick served as President of the Niagara chapter of the Ontario Association of Dispensing Opticians and as Vice Chairman of the Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers.
Richard Skinner was a true friend to many. He led a Godly life and was a quiet support to Barbara as they served together internationally. A cord of three is not easily broken. Beginning in 1981 Rick worked to better the vision of those in seventeen developing countries by collecting and dispensing prescription eyeglasses to restore the sight of those in need. As the Optical Coordinator for Medical Ministry International Canada, for the past twenty years, he prepared needed supplies and equipment for short term medical projects and permanent health centers.
Rick was an active lifelong member of Ryerson United Church, where he served as an Elder, member of Session, and on the Unified Board for selected terms over forty-five years.
Rick was an active Mason. Past Master of The Lodge of Strict Observance #27, A.F.& A.M. G.R.C., Past Assistant Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of Canada A.F.&A.M. in the Province of Ontario. Member of the Scottish Rite and Past Most Wise Sovereign of the Hamilton Chapter of the Rose Croix. Honorary Inspector-General Supreme Council 33⁰ Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Canada. Member of Rameses Shriners, Toronto. Member and Deputy Provincial Grand Master of the Royal Order of Scotland. He demonstrated exemplary character and concern and compassion for others.
Thank you to Dr. Ralph Dubienski, HopEthiopia, Ambassador Philip Baker and the staff of the Canadian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for facilitating the repatriation.
Friends may call at Marlatt Funeral Home, 615 Main St. East, Hamilton (east of Sanford) on Friday October 9th, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., with a Masonic service to follow. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Ryerson United Church, 842 Main Street East, Hamilton on Saturday October 10th, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. with a reception to follow. Private family interment to take place.
The family is grateful for any memorial donations made to Medical Ministry International Canada (online at www.mmicanada.ca/donate-cad/ for Canadians and www.mmicanada.ca/donate-usd/ for Americans); to Ryerson United Church; or to the Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation - Dyslexia Learning Centre.
Online condolences may be made at www.marlattfhhamilton.com
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