Obituaries

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Frank “Raymond” Skardal, who passed away peacefully at home on August 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness.

Born on December 13, 1940, in Baldur, Manitoba, Ray was the son of Frank and Ethel Skardal. He spent his early years in Baldur and Glenboro, where he developed a strong work ethic, deep family values, and a love for his community.

Ray proudly served in the Canadian Navy, returned home, and finished school. He went on to work for the Hudson’s Bay Company in the early 1960s and continued until his retirement in 1992. Throughout the years, he spent much time coaching his boys in sports—hockey, soccer, and baseball.

He married the love of his life, Diana Ross, and together they had two sons: Raymond and Riley. He is survived by his wife, Diana; sons, Raymond and Riley; daughter-in-law, Dawn; and his pride and joy—his grandchildren, Rylee, Rae, and Ryan. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law, Penny Ross, Brenda Picton, and Leila Ross; and his brother-in-law, Lloyd Rollins.  Numerous nieces and nephews, Penny, Tim , James & Jarret; Rob & Steven; Danny, Carolyn, Jonah & Jean , Sheri Lyn; Bill, Jenn, Alex, Daria, Adam, Anna.  Many wonderful cousins and extended family members and friends! Ray loved them all!

Ray was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Ethel Skardal; parents-in-law, Bill and Rose Ross; brother-in-law, Bill Ross Jr.; sister-in-law, Bonnie Rollins; and his best friend and brother-in-law, Maurice “Mo” Picton.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the doctors and nurses at Health Sciences Centre, the home care staff, and the palliative care nurses who helped care for Ray during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations in Ray’s memory be made to the Health Sciences Centre CancerCare Foundation.