Ronald Joseph Skerbinc

Ronald J. Skerbinc of Coon Rapids, MN passed away on August 30, 2023 at the age of 80. He was born on March 20, 1943 in Duluth, MN where he grew up racing homemade carts down the hills with his brothers and neighborhood friends.

He graduated from Duluth Central High in 1961, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July of that year. He graduated from the Electrician's Mate Service School in San Diego, CA in February of 1962. While at sea, he served as an electrician on the USS Randolph. He was honorably discharged in July of 1965.

After leaving the military, Ron worked at Minnesota Power for a brief period of time before moving to the Twin Cities and beginning his career as a Generator Winder for Electric Machinery (EM) in 1966. He traveled the world with EM, repairing generators in power plants and gold mines. He retired from EM in 2021.

Ron was an incredibly loving man. He loved his three kids unconditionally and was always their biggest cheerleader. He loved to travel to warm, tropical locations, even though he was not always a fan of their food. Ron was an incredible Vovo to Joy, and made sure to speak words of encouragement to her daily.

He was preceded in death by their father, Frank J. Skerbinc; mother, Melba E. Skerbinc; and brother, Frank “Mickey” Skerbinc.

Ron is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (David Mielke) Skerbinc; son, Nathan Skerbinc; daughter, Rebecca Wirkkula; grandkids, Tylar, Artie (Raissa), and Cody; brother, Jeff Skerbinc (Cindy); sister-in-law; Marlene; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all of Ron's doctors and nurses at U Fairview, Mercy and Unity Hospital, and the Anoka County Nurses for the care and compassion they showed him over the years dealing with the myelofibrosis and tuberculosis in his final days.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Ron’s life at Gearhart Funeral Home, 11275 Foley Boulevard NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448 on Friday, October 20, 2023 anytime between 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Interment will be at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, date to be determined.