Henry "Ernie" SKINNER

February 22, 1941 - September 11, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ernie Skinner, who passed away peacefully in the early morning of September 11, 2025, in Victoria, BC. Ernie was born in Prince Rupert, BC, on February 22, 1941, and grew up in Victoria, where he attended Belmont High School. Known for his drive, humour, and generosity, Ernie built a life dedicated to family, business, and community. Ernie began his career in the grocery business with Shop-Easy, where he developed the skills, vision, and work ethic that would shape his lifelong career-and where he would meet his future wife, Carol. Alongside Alex Campbell, whom Ernie always claimed was the best business partner he could have ever chosen, he co-founded Thrifty Foods, which grew into one of Vancouver Island's most beloved grocery chains. Guided by values of service and community connection, Ernie helped create a company that became more than a grocery store: it became a gathering place for neighbours and fostered lifelong friendships and business collaborations. Never one to stand still, Ernie went on to open both the Market on Yates and the Market at Millstream. These stores reflected his vision of supporting local growers and producers while delivering the highest quality food - a philosophy that continues to guide them today. Beyond his entrepreneurial accomplishments, Ernie will be remembered for his warmth, integrity, and dedication to those around him. He had a lifelong passion for cars, owning many throughout his life, with car shows being a favourite pastime. He also never wavered in his lifelong belief in the existence of Sasquatch and UFOs, knowing there was something more out there.
Ernie was predeceased by the love of his life, Carol, with whom he shared 46 wonderful years of marriage; his sister, Audrey; and his son-in-law, Nagy. He is survived by his three daughters, Arlene (Don), Christine, and Laureen; his brother, Paul (Lorraine); in-laws, Don & Becky, Margaret & Richard, and David & Doreen; granddaughters, Amber (Dan), Arden (Kristjan), Mallory, Stephanie, Jessica, Elizabeth (Jordan), Emily, Mynah, and Neenu; great-grandchildren, Claire, Maxwell, Noah, and Oliver; and many nieces and nephews, whom he adored.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC. Friends, colleagues, and community members are welcome to gather, share stories, and honour the remarkable legacy of a man whose vision and generosity helped shape Vancouver Island. Please wear your favourite bright colours, as Ernie would have loved that. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beacon Hill Children's Farm.
www.beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca