Retired Elementary School teacher – St. Gregory the Great, Picton

Admitted at the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Joe Skratt of Picton, died later that morning at the age of 92. Son of the late Theodore and Geraldine Skratt (née Cahoon) and husband for 60 years to Shirley (née Bartman). Loving father of Michael (Marsha) of Port Hope, Stephen (Sarmishta) of Toronto and grandfather of Sidharth. Dear brother of the late Stephen (late Patricia), John (Helene), late Thomas (surviving Marcia) and fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Born in Staten Island, New York, Joe spent summers at his parents’ hobby farm outside Picton, and fell for both the County and Shirley. He loved both to the end. A gentle, contented soul, he never tired of running into former students, fellow Kiwanis volunteers, his West Wind neighbours, and his many friends and acquaintances. He loved his drives around the County, travels with Shirley, half a Big Bay breakfast, tennis, musicals, reading, and church. He was golfing in September and played his last chess game at Thanksgiving (the grandson lost). Devoted to his faith, Joe was graced with a happy life and a happy end. A Memorial Mass of the Resurrection will be held at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, Picton on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11 am, with interment of his ashes at Cherry Valley Cemetery at a later date. A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held in the Spring of 2026. If desired, donations may be made to the Hospital for Sick Children or a charity of your choice. Online condolences at: www.rushnellfuneralhomes.com