Harlan Skinner

Harlan Skinner, age 87, of Backus, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2023, at Dignity and Grace Assisted Living. He was born to Floyd and Ruth (Jennings) Skinner in Clear Lake Township, MN, the youngest of seven children. 

Harlan loved the outdoors and deer hunting was his favorite season. He had a quick wit and enjoyed cracking himself up with his antics. Harlan’s storytelling and entertaining of guests was complemented by his wife, Margaret, who provided the hosting. Harlan was a craftsman and enjoyed working on various projects. He often said he was a jack of all trades and master of nothing.

Harlan was unique in naming pets and people. The family dog was named “Yuck” and he named his second daughter his name backwards. He had his own unique style.

Harlan married Margaret (Kemp) Skinner in April of 1961 and they raised three children: Threasa Orion, Andrew (Sam) Skinner and Nalrah (Mike) McCormick. The couple were blessed with 11 grandchildren: Cassandra Pryor, Elizabeth (Chris) Flier, Ryan Pryor, AJ (Nicole) Skinner, Cody (Alexis) Skinner, Ella Skinner, Abby Skinner, Janel Hicks, Jorden (Joe) Thatcher, Threasa (Simon) Andrys, Debra (Andrew) Ralph; and 16 great grandchildren. He has two surviving brothers, Dale (Janet) Skinner and Andrew Skinner. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Margaret; brothers, Maurice and Stan Skinner; and sisters, Marjorie Skinner and Livona (Skinner) Butler.

Harlan’s story was one of uniqueness and adventure.

A memorial service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, November 11 at Kline Funeral Home, Pine River. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Backus.