It is with heavy hearts the family of Linda Skirten announces her passing on Friday, March 31, 2017 at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances, at the age of 60 Linda was a kind and gentle person with a loving heart and her door was always open. She enjoyed a good visit, and welcomed a cup of coffee. Whenever she had the opportunity, she was always willing to go. She cherished the vacations and time spent with her family. Linda lived a courageous life with Diabetes from a young age, which took its toll on her body, But no matter what she was struggling with, she was always more concerned for others. Her priority was always with her family. She loved her grandchildren and wanted to be a part of every activity. When her health didn’t allow her to attend certain events, she still wanted to know every detail and delighted in the stories. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Ray of 41 years; daughters, Missy (Craig) Gagne of Cranbrook BC, Mandy Skirten of Fort Frances; the loves of her life her grandchildren, Ethan, Ryden, Ben, and Nora; sister, Barb Cobey (John Gookins) of International Falls; sister-in-law Jeannie Stewart; lifelong best friend Shannon Petersen of Virginia MN; and in-laws, Sheila (Don) Anness, Bev (Larry) Angus, Sheldon (Sue) Skirten, Wayne (Shirley) Skirten, Ruby (Jack) Johnson, Roger (Kathy) Skirten, Linda Chepil, and Sandy (Carolyn) Skirten; and many cherished nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Dorothy Cobey; sister Mary Haughton, brother Larry Stewart, father-in-law Arthur Skirten; mother-in-law Irene Skirten and brother-in-law Richard Skirten. In accordance with Linda’s wishes a private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memoriam donations may be made to the Fort Frances Community Chest c/o North Ridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, ON, P0W 1E0. Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com You can shed tears that she is gone Or you can smile because she has lived You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left Your heart can be empty because you can't see her Or you can be full of the love that you shared You can remember her and only that she is gone Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.