Mr. Ralph G. Skinder, a longtime resident of Andover and beloved husband of Barbara J. (Doyle) Skinder, died at the Lawrence General Hospital on Tuesday, August 27, 2013. He was 83 years old.
Mr. Skinder was in the Air National Guard for 8 years. In his spare time, Mr. Skinder would fix anything for his family and friends. He loved cars, motorcycles and airplanes. He had worked for many years as a Sales Manager in the Auto Industry, most recently for Saab. Ralph spent his entire life learning, was very inquisitive and was always interested in Social Justice.
Mr. Skinder was the loving father of Gerard J. and his wife Ellen Nicole Skinder of Merrimac, Mark A. and his wife Mary Hunter Skinder of Greenfield, Carolyn F. Skinder of Cambria, California, Laurel M. and her husband John T. Gourville of Wakefield and Amy E. and her husband Todd J. Meredith of Spokane, Washington and cherished grandfather of Maggie, Evan, Alisher, Jasmine, Cedar, Eli, Byron and Brian. Ralph is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
His funeral mass was celebrated in St. Augustine Church, 43 Essex Street, Andover, Saturday, August 31, 2013, at 11 AM. Many relatives and friends respectfully attended. Calling hours were held in the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main St., Andover, Friday, August 30, 2013, from 4 to 8 PM. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Catholic Charities, 51 Sleeper St., Boston, MA 02210 or to the Habitat for Humanity, 240 Commercial St., 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02109. For additional information, please visit, www.burkemagliozzi.com.