It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my husband, Ronald James Skinner. He died peacefully at home, with me by his side, on May 6th, 2025, at the age of 63, after a long and courageous battle with Lung Disease.
Ron was born September 10th, 1961, in Guelph ON and lovingly adopted by Edmund and Ruth (Davies) Skinner. He grew up in St. Paul’s, ON, attending Warnica Public School and Barrie Central Collegiate. After living and working in Edmonton, AB for many years, he found his way back to Innisfil, ON.
Ron was a proud, longtime member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, in both Ontario (Local 793) and Alberta (Local 955). He traveled across the country as an excavator operator building oil and natural gas pipelines.
Ron loved traveling with his wife to sunny locales where he could dedicate time to improving his golf game. When not on the road for work, he could be found relaxing by the pool listening to classic rock or on the golf course with his longtime friend Matt. Ron was an excellent cook who was known far and wide for his barbecued ribs. He also grew many types of hot peppers with which he created his own chili powder blends. He was also a lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan, an avid reader and lover of funky Hawaiian shirts.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Debra (Bowen) of Innisfil, son Jonathan of Barrie, stepson Kiegan of Barrie, sister Karen (James Damiani), nephew Timothy and niece Nicole. Ron was predeceased by his parents. Ron will also be missed by his friends and extended family.
A Celebration of Ron’s Life will be held on May 24th, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., at the ANAF Club (52 Morrow Rd, Barrie, ON). A private interment will be held at Innisvale Cemetery in Innisfil at a later date.
I would like to give a heartfelt thanks to his friends Matt and Carl for all their support, as well as his Palliative care team.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron’s memory may be made to the Canadian Lung Association. https://www.lung.ca/donate or any charity of your choice
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Nikki Taylor
Posted on: Monday, May 12, 2025Deb, I am so very sad to learn of Ron’s passing. Thinking of you in this difficult time. hugs from a long time friend xo Nikki
Paula Roe
Posted on: Monday, May 12, 2025I’m deeply sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. If there’s anything you need or any way I can support you, please reach out.
Mark Guiler
Posted on: Monday, May 12, 2025Deb, my deepest condolences to you and all of yours and Ron’s family. Sending much love to you in spirit as you journey through this time.
Andy Alijohn
Posted on: Monday, May 12, 2025Deb, my condolences to you and your family and friends during this difficult time.
Lorraine Alexander
Posted on: Monday, May 12, 2025I was heartbroken to hear about the passing of your husband Deb. Please accept my deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through, but I am thinking of you and sending strength your way. Your co worker Lorraine Alexander.
Rick Wirkowski
Posted on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025Deb, my sincere condolences on your loss. Ron sounds like an amazing man that clearly left his mark on this earth. Take comfort and peace in all your positive memories. Take care.
Mona Upadhye
Posted on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025Deb, my sincere condolences to you and your family in this sad and difficult time. Stay strong and take care.
Helen Lysohirka
Posted on: Saturday, May 17, 2025Sending our condolences to Debra & family, our hearts & thoughts go out to you at this difficult time. Hope to see you at the celebration. RIP Ronald
Deborah Cheung
Posted on: Monday, May 19, 2025Deb, Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Take care.
Annette Hines (Jagt)
Posted on: Tuesday, May 20, 2025Although you and I have never met, Deb, I knew Ron from 30+ years ago.
Anytime Ron was around, us girls always felt safe, knowing Ron was there for us.
I have many pictures of your husband in my old photo albums.
I am so very sorry for your loss. He was such a good guy and loved by so many.
Marnee Tereskewitz
Posted on: Wednesday, May 21, 2025I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the love you shared and the memories you hold dear.
Lisa Young
Posted on: Friday, May 23, 2025Deb and family,
Hear my prayer, O Lord:
May I never hesitate to act in
righteousness,
confidently claiming the victory
in all life’s battles.
Let there be but one desire on my mind:
to sing thy praise.
And when my life has run its course,
may I die
with limitless courage.
Guru Gobind Singh
Thinking of you.