Obituary of John Leroy Skoberg

1926 - 2012

John Leroy Skoberg passed away with family members by his side on Sunday, August 12, 2012 at the age of 86. He left behind his wife of 63 years, Margaret Skoberg (nee Overman) and his three children Dana (Jules) Skoberg and their daughter Jenny; Diane Skoberg and her children Emmett, Duncan and Jade; Vicki (Brian) Towriss and their children Kellie and Jake; three great grandchildren Gemma and Sage Vigne and Zachary Tishenko, and his sister Joyce Wilcox. John was predeceased by his two brothers Mervin and Clifford.

John was born in Lougheed, Alberta in 1926 and went to work for the CP Railway at the age of 18 and became a locomotive engineer in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. He was an active member of local, provincial and federal politics with the New Democratic Party from 1963 to 1986, which included living in Ottawa from 1968 to 1972. He retired in 1986 with over 35 years with the railroad and over 23 years in politics at which time they moved to Peachland, British Columbia. In 2000 they moved to Cranbrook, British Columbia where they have been living ever since.

John was known for his courage and tenacity for tackling tough social issues, was an active trade unionist involved in many labour associations and enjoyed his time with family as well as curling, golfing, playing ball and walking the dogs.

Please join his family in celebrating the memories of his numerous successes and contributions he made to so many people and communities. He is in a peaceful and special place. Special thanks to many life long friends for all their support and kindness over the years. For those wishing to make a memorial donation, they may do so to the charity of their choice.

His cremated remains will be placed in the Lougheed Alberta Cemetery with a family celebration of John's life to take place at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com