With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected news of Timothy Norman Skinner’s passing on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Geraldton Hospital.
Tim was born to Norman and Lillian Skinner at Geraldton Hospital on October 27, 1945. He was the first of five boys – Mark (who passed away), Rick (who passed away), Kerry, and John. Tim grew up in Longlac and graduated from Geraldton High School. During his teenage years, he held various jobs and after graduation worked for the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in Longlac and other northern communities before deciding to pursue further education in Angola, Indiana, U. S. There he met and married his first wife, Sue. They had two sons who now live in Indiana. The family moved around several places in the U. S. until Tim decided to return to Longlac to take over his parents’ business. In 1983, Sue and their two sons went back to Fort Wayne, Indiana.
In 1982, Tim met his second wife Linda who moved to Longlac with her son and daughter in spring of 1984. His passion for the business and connection with people kept him engaged until his last day on Sunday evening, January 25. Tim always had a story ready to share or a coin handy to flip; he knew all the best spots for fishing and hunting nearby as well as the latest town gossip. Each morning brought a group of friends who came by the store for coffee where they would catch up on what’s new – even on the morning he passed away. I can only imagine that this routine started each day right for him. If he wanted to check up on friends or just say hello, he’d have that phone ready without hesitation.
Tim’s dedication to his work lasted for over 53 years; he was already planning for his next year when health issues interrupted those plans. I’m certain that if given more time, he’d have done everything possible.
I believe there could be a whole book about Timothy Norman Skinner’s life; I hope you remember your moments with him fondly and feel grateful for being part of his journey.
What stands out about Tim Skinner is how much he embraced life up North while welcoming anyone wanting to explore the beautiful lands, lakes, and rivers he loved so dearly. He was not just an outdoorsman; he truly became one with nature itself-a living example of the wilderness that shaped both his life and livelihood. His expertise about local roads and waterways will be unmatched but it’s his friendly smile that will remain cherished by all whose lives intersected with his.
A celebration of Tim’s life is set for Sunday June 7, 2026 at Skinner’s Acre in Longlac. Everyone is invited to join us for his final Porch Jam followed by a pot-luck dinner. On Monday June 8, 2026 Tim will be laid to rest alongside his father at Longlac Cemetery-no doubt they’ll continue sharing stories together.
Rest easy Tim – you were deeply cared for and will certainly be missed.
Arrangements are handled by Everest Funeral Chapel located at 299 Waverley Street at Algoma.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay. com
