Fleur Blanche

In memory of

Paul Edmund Skanks

1936 - 2023

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Sympathy Messages

We will remember Paul with our family trips to Ottawa and then your eventual visit in Alberta. Paul was so gracious, kind and with a lovely twinkle in his eye. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers to the family.

- Christina Rebus, on October 23, 2023

Travel safe my friends. It’s been years but I still remember all the times we spent at the events. You always had a smile on your face and always said hi . I always enjoy learning and talking with you. One of the most respectful person I know. Love always Celina and dale

- Celina, on October 24, 2023

I will keep fond memories of Uncle Paul and he'll be missed. There were great times in my childhood that I remember when Uncle came for visits with his High School buddies(in Kenny's convertible sports car) and yes they would sing and just have fun with us. I use to enjoy him reading to us from "The Tales of Nanabohzo (Native stories of how things in nature came to be)....Christmas'....and cannot leave out Playing Golf and the never ending list of "corny" jokes! Peace be with you all and... Rest in Peace Uncle as you enter The Spirit World Nephew, Wa Ia ke Ron Barry

- Barry Diabo, on October 24, 2023

My Very Deepest Sympathy to Sll who knew him and was Priviledge to hear his Wonderful Teachings and Presence...

- Barb ONeil, on October 25, 2023

Paul was a ray of sunshine when I first started working for the federal government. He was so wise and kind, and treated me like his family, when I was preparing to become a mother at a young age - his advice, guidance and support is something I will always cherish. Travel well, dear friend. Nia:wenkowa for everything ️

- Sara Loft, on October 25, 2023

Dearest Uncle.. Uncle Paul, I will deeply miss you. Sitting, talking, laughing, crying, holding your hand, photos on the stairs and your big unforgettable hugs. My heart feels sad and heavy right now. Uncle Paul I thank you for so many wonderful happy memories and the many life lessons I will cherish my entire life. I loved his email jokes, too. ( tee, hee) Adam & Mark & Peter, " My Three Son" you were all the absolute pride of your dad. Uncle, your time to rest in peace. Your ever adoring loving niece.

- Donna Mae Taylor, on October 25, 2023

My sincere condolences to you and your family Mark, your father’s hard work will go a long way for many generations to come. RIP Paul

- Tracy Teasdale , on October 25, 2023

Paul was part of the Wabano family and I am very saddened to hear he has passed. Please accept my sincere condolences.

- Robert Ireland, on October 25, 2023

Paul was a pillar of the Indigenous community in Ottawa from his work with the Wabano Health Centre to his visits at the Kumik and Iskotew Lodges. He offered wisdom and kindness. He could cook up a wicked feast without batting an eyelash and you could be sure there’d be some interesting characters at the table and lots of laughter. He loved “his boys” more than anything. He worked closely with groundbreaking efforts to truly engage Indigenous people “in a good way” such as Aboriginal Head Start and the development of Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA). A legacy to be proud of. I owe him a lot as he helped my find my way and I know I am not alone.

- Karen Roach, on October 26, 2023

My sincere condolences to all of you and all who loved Elder Paul. He was kind and gentle when needed and no nonsense when needed. He had a lasting impact on my life. He will be greatly missed.

- Beverly Anger, on October 27, 2023

So sorry to hear of the passing of Paul. He was a friend and golfing buddy and a witness at my wedding. I will miss his friendship and counsel.

- Richard , on November 28, 2023

Sad to her of Paul's passing. I knew him from our paddling days in Lachine. He was a leader, a mentor, a fun-loving guy and one who welcomed all into his social circle....you couldn't have asked for a nicer guy. His unique voice, in song and in life, will continue to ring in my ears. My condolences...Glen Benison

- Glen Benison, on January 10, 2024

I have great memories of Paul at Lachine High School where He was an active participant in our sports teams and and school organizations. My condolences to your family.

- Diane Harkness Lambert, on January 13, 2024

I remember Paul fondly from our days in the mid 60’s singing in the Lachine Alumni Singers directed by the late Ted McLearon. I particularly remember our Saturday morning post-rehearsal gatherings in the Royal Dixie apartments where Paul was always so friendly and welcoming particularly to the new members of the choir. He was greatly loved and respected by all members of the choir. My condolences to his family and all who were touched by his kindness.

- Karen Auld Albert, on January 13, 2024

I only recently learned of Paul's passing and offer you our sincere condolences. Paul became a friend more than fifty years after my leaving Lachine, QC when he became an enthusiastic member of the organizing committee of the Lachine High School Class of '55 and Friends reunions. He attended all that were held in various locations up until 2018, and he will be in our thoughts in April when a a small group will be reuniting in Parksville, BC . Rest in peace, Paul.

- Julie Spencer and Bob Partridge, Kelowna, BC, on January 27, 2024

What a shock. I was just thinking about Paul recently wondering if I would possibly see him at our Canadian Masters canoe/kayak championships this summer in Welland, Ontario. I was a member of Lachine Racing Canoe Club and lived Paul for the wonderful person he was. We called him pinky because he washed his red and white striped racing singlet and the red ran into the white making it pink. The name Pinky stuck forever. I just found out about Paul’s passing today. Rest in peace my wonderful friend. Betty-Anne Gowans Jolly

- Betty-Anne Gowans Jolly, on February 7, 2024

I Wish To Extend My Deepest Heartfelt Sympathies To All The Family On The Loss Of Paul. My Parents Were Great Long Time Friends~Our Family's Were Neighbors In Chateauguay. I Will Hold Many Great Visits & Memories Close At Heart Of Fun Times Spent With Uncle Paul & Family.

- Dawn DeMoulin , on May 4, 2024

My condolences, Paul was a big part of our teen week activities at Wabano Ottawa and I'm sure he was instrumental in many other areas. He opened for us each day, as we took the teens for jui-jitso lesson, lacrosse lesson, how to make pasta, cave exploration, zip lines and, walking in the trees at Camp Fortune, he made a great fire when the teens were too cold to sleep in the cave that night, and they slept around the fire. I imagine he told them stories. We were lucky to have him on board that week. I'm no longer employed at Wabano but it was a really great week to be a part and help lead this adventure.

- Sheri.T. Ojibwe Northwestern Ont, on June 6, 2025

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