James "Red" SKELDING

SKELDING James "Red" "The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time." Jack London James "Red" Skelding died at home Thursday, March 11, 2010, with his bride of 53 years and his four "J's" at his bedside. Red was born on March 20, 1933. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1952, and continued to Assumption College in Ontario, Canada. Red was a U.S. Army veteran serving during the Korean War, who upon returning home spent nearly 50 years working at Black Diamond Nursery. Throughout his journey, Red devoted his life to both his family and discovering the great outdoors. His many adventures took him to the Pine River, the woods of Canada, and most recently to Alaska. While he was an exceptional hunter and fisherman, he readily admitted that his finest catch was his wife, Sharon. Preceding him in death were his parents, Marcella and R. Frank Skelding; brother, Thomas Verlin and nephew, Michael Moerdyk. Red is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Morgan Skelding; sister, Marilyn Huggins; devoted children, Jeff Skelding and Tami, Jill Taylor and Martin, Jennifer Skelding, James II and Dina Skelding; admiring grandchildren, Eric Taylor and Stephanie, Brian and Sarah Taylor, Abbott, Sam, Brock, James C., Justin; beautiful granddaughter, Olivia Skelding; loyal dog, Sir Henry; sister-in-law, Lois Verlin, and his special "up north" extended family. The family extends a special thank you to Eileen Knopp RN, Beth Chase RN, Willie Mae, and physical therapists Mike and Joan of the Visiting Nurse Service of Toledo. Also many thanks to the "Wednesday Breakfast Club", especially Betty Stein. A celebration of his life will be held at Ansberg-West Funeral Home on Saturday, March 20, where the family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a blessing by Fr. Richard Morse at 2:00 p.m. Upon Red's request, in lieu of flowers, donations should be directed to Oak Openings Metro Park in Whitehouse, Ohio or the veterans organization of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be left at: www.ansberg-west.com