Dennis Skinner Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 27, 2013.

Skinner, Dennis N. of McGregor, age 77, departed from the comfort of his wife's arms to the arms of his Heavenly Father on February 23, 2013. Dennis was a 34-year employee of Osseo Area Schools, as a classroom teacher and retiring in 1993 as Director of Curriculum and Staff Development. In retirement, he enjoyed living in McGregor at "the lake" and was active in his community. He served as Jevne Township Supervisor, was on Aitkin County committees for Planning & Zoning, Comprehensive Land Use Management, and Rivers & Lakes Fair. As a member of Grace Church near McGregor he chaired the Finance Team, Endowment Team, and 2002 Pastoral Call Committee. Dennis was an educator both in and out of the classroom, imparting his curiosity and wonder for the natural world and for other people's stories. He was slow to judge others but likely to give genuine compliments. He shared his time and gifts because he loved seeing others succeed. His legacy to all is his faith in God and joy in life; and his sly sense of humor often coupled with his delight in wordplay. He had a gracious, gentle spirt and was a true gentleman to others. He was a devoted husband, an attentive and giving father, a playful and extremely proud grandfather. He is survived by wife Judy and his children and grandchildren: Scott & Sue Skinner of Aitkin (Ranee, Ryan, Rich); Todd & Mary Jo Skinner of Anoka (Tom, Nate); Kristen & Tom Gannon of Elk River (John, Erin); Karen & Emmett Fogarty of Belle Plaine (Courtney, Jack, Luke, Emily). Also survived by his sister, Susan & Bill Wurster. Celebration of his life will be at Grace Lutheran Church in McGregor on Saturday, March 2 at 11:00 am, with visitation at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Heartland Hospice or the OARE Scholarship Fund. Special thanks to Golden Horizons Memory Care. Arrangements are with McGregor Funeral Home. www.srtfuneral.com

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March 5, 2013

Willie Jett

Mrs. Skinner,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mr.Skinner was my 2nd grade teacher and I remember the life lessons shared that helped shape the man that I am today. Take care.

Willie Jett

March 4, 2013

Marlin Fillipi

Judy & Family,
Denny and I started teaching in Dist. 279 about the same time. I remember working on various committees and curriculum writing teams with Denny. What a joy! His insight and humor were greatly appreciated.

March 3, 2013

Woody Hoiseth

I have nothing but fond memories of Denny. He was a respected teacher and a leader. Always a kind person with a wonderful personality.

March 3, 2013

Ardelle Temanson

I worked with Denny in the Osseo school district. He was fair, kind and gave much of himself to his position. Thanks for sharing him! He was missed when he retired and he will be missed now. Ardelle Temanson, retired Title I teacher

March 2, 2013

Gerri Wilson

It was always a pleasure, Denny. See you later.

February 28, 2013

birdie westerdahl

Judy and family, I was sad to read about Dennis's death while in AZ. I always remember him with a great smile on his face! The struggle for him is over and I know that you will be able to move forward to a fulfilling life. Bill and I send our condolences.Sincerely, Birdie Thies Westerdahl

February 27, 2013

Tom Kammeier

Dennis, you were a fellow teacher, mentor, confidant, and friend. Appreciated time spent with you. Sorrowfully, Tom Kammeier

February 27, 2013

Hi Judy--so sorry to hear about Denny. He was a very good guy and one of those friends you always have no matter how long it has been since we have seen one another. As a teacher, the influence he had on those several hundred kids he taught over the years will remain with them through out their lives. Because it was Denny, that influence will be very good and useful to each to them. He helped others and that is a very high purpose.

Much love to you, Don Brown

February 27, 2013

Dear Judy, I am so sorry that you have temporarily lost your best friend. You have the promise that you will be together again someday. Denny was always a true blue friend to all that were privileged to know him. Very sincerely, Bob Vartdal

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