Mr. Gerald Skinner, age 67 years, a resident of Thunder Bay,passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on May 12, 2002, after a lengthy battle with Muscular Dystrophy. His outstanding determination and courage to combat this disease was an inspiration to all who knew Gerry.
Gerry was born in Camrose, Alberta in 1935. He later moved to Thunder Bay withhis family in 1940, where he was raised and educated. He had a deep passion for music at an early age and taught himself how to play the guitar, and later the Steele guitar. He travelled to the United States, where he met the Sunny Mountain Boys and toured with them around the Country. Meeting and playing with famous people like Patsy Cline. He moved back to Thunder Bay and continued his music with the local talent in the area, such as Merna Lorrie, Lois Garrity and many functions like Hymers Fair with Carol Baker, just to mention a few. When Gerry wasn’t performing he worked at the Department of Highways in the Accounting Department. In 1977 he Married his True Love Irene Helmi Perala. Gerry had a tremendous zest for life, no matter what it threw at him. Spending time with close friends, listening to various types of music or making up his own songs, watching Baseball or Hockey games, or just teasing his wife Irene were just some of his interests. His family was always very important to Gerry, especially his Grand-Daughter Katherine, who was his pride and joy, and always brightened his day.
Gerry will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife Irene of 25 years, sons James, Tom, Richard (Melanie) grand-daughter Katherine, brother Donald (Gloria), mother-in-law Onnie Matikka, brother-in-law Aarne Perala, sister-in-law Donna Matikka and numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
Gerry was predeceased by his father Murray, mother Martha, brother Alfred, sisters-in-law Nola and Vera.
As per Gerry’s wishes cremation has taken place. A funeral service for family and friends will be held at Wesley United Church, 130 N. Brodie Street, on Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 1:00 p.m., celebrated by Minister Jennifer Uhryniw. A private interment at Sunset Memorial Gardens will be held after the service. As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made in Gerry’s honor to The Muscular Dystrophy Association or Charity of our choice."
— The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal May 13, 2002.
1935 - 2002 (67 years)
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