Irene Skirten

Mom was born on April 15, 1919 on the Shaw farm in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba 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, and that became home for the next 24 years.

Mom was very active and enjoyed gardening, bowling, cards, 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; and 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 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 donations may be made to the Rainycrest Auxiliary in care of Green Funeral home, Box 427, Fort Frances, Ontario 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.

On-line condolences may be made in care of www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com