Merlin was born on April 11, 1935 at Wadena, and passed away peacefully on January 25, 2017 at Weyburn. He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Aurilla Skjonsby; sister-in-law, Marion Skjonsby; uncle, Floyd Deal, Jr., and brothers-in-law, Marvin Larson and George Rasmuson. Merlin grew up on the family farm at Ratcliffe, and married Anna L. Rasmuson July 19, 1957 at Weyburn. They were married for 59 years and lived in Weyburn, Estevan and Stoughton and he enjoyed 52 years working in the oilfied in Saskatchewan. Merlin will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Anna Skjonsby of Weyburn; daughter, Shelly (Don) Mahaffey of Weyburn; son, Ken Skjonsby of Weyburn; son, Brian (Angele) Skjonsby of Estevan; grandchildren: Jesse Mahaffey, Kelsey (Jeff) Krieger, Kaley Mahaffey (Adam Bue), Nicholas Skjonsby and Joshua Skjonsby; great grandson, Charlie Krieger; brothers, Wilfred (Mariann) Skjonsby and Darrell (Vickie) Skjonsby; sisters, Mabel Larsen and Darlene (Dalt) Lafoy; brother-in-law, Raymond (Joyce) Rasmuson; sisters-in-law, Judy Rasmuson and Ruth (Duane) Ryan, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. The family of Merlin would like to thank Dr. Allan Fong, Dr. Philip Fong and Dr. Matiza; staff at Houses 11 & 12 at Tatagwa View; head nurses at Tatagwa View, Mellonie, Nastasia and Shane and Palliative Nurse, Jenny for the kind and loving care provided to Merlin. Thank you to Shelly, Don, Ken, Brian and Angele and all the grandchildren for their help during this time. Thank you to the many people who sent flowers, food, cards and visits. Thank you to Tamara and staff at Fletcher Funeral Chapel for their compassion and care. Thank you to Reverend John Ferrier for the wonderful service and to the Knox Presbyterian Ladies for the funeral lunch. God bless you all ~ Anna and family. A Private Family Graveside Service took place Monday, January 30, at Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn, with Reverend John Ferrier officiating. A time of fellowship followed at Knox Presbyterian Hall. Donations in memory of Merlin may be made to Tatagwa View House 11. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, 306-842-5432.
