It is with sadness that we share the passing of Sandy Skinner on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Patricia “Pat”; caring brother to Margaret; loving father of Lisa (Pierre), Iain (Dawne), Jamie (Leanne) and Graeme (Kim); and proud grandfather of Cole (Elizabeth), Sarah, Alex, Aidan, Kyle, Sean, Mark, Alexi, Katie and Kyla.

Son to Scottish immigrants, Sandy was raised in Hamilton, was an accomplished high school athlete, and obtained his Chartered Accountant designation, all while remaining an active reservist in the Hamilton 8th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA (earning the rank of Major). He earned an MBA (with honours) from Harvard’s Business School, then returned home to build his family and practice, meeting Pat in 1964 and they were married the following year.

Sandy was a cheerful, tireless, diligent professional, becoming the firm’s national managing partner during his career (Grant Thornton, previously Doane Raymond, Chagnon Magillvary, etc.). He held numerous leadership positions in his industry, including President of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario.

In addition to his professional career, Sandy was an active member in his local community. He was a leader in the United Church of Canada, holding numerous roles in his local congregations and the wider regional senior councils of the Church. Numerous community bridge clubs, the local Probus Chapter and other groups enjoyed his leadership.

Finally, Sandy was a true family man. He spent countless mornings, evenings and weekends at softball / baseball / hockey games, swim meets, triathlons, Scouts Canada (Cub) camps, and on golf course and ski slopes (having learned to ski in his late 20’s); lovingly living vicariously through his children and grandchildren. He treasured weekends and vacations spent at the family ski chalet and around the pool with family and friends. The consummate gentleman, always welcoming, generous, caring, and trusted; you were always welcomed as part of the clan.

He loved deeply and will be deeply missed.

Visitation is planned to be held at the Turner & Porter Funeral Home (2180 Hurontario Street, Mississauga) on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 from 2 pm to 4 pm, and 5 pm to 7 pm. A celebration of life is planned for the Spring, Covid permitting, at the Port Credit campus of Christ First United Church (151 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga). Proof of full vaccination required, and local health restrictions will be in effect.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Christ First United Church.