Graham Donald Oliver Skjenna

He was born in Ottawa on April 9, 1978, to Patricia and Olaf Skjenna.

Graham attended schools in Toronto and Montreal as a child, finishing his high school years in Ottawa. He studied robotics at Algonquin College which led him to a career in the high tech industry and manufacturing.

Graham is survived by his two children, Juliette and Erik, his ex-wife Carole Bourget, his parents, Patricia and Olaf, sisters Laura (Carm) and Kirsten (Shawn, nieces Shenna and Nissa), and his brother Olaf (Stephanie, niece Freya).

Graham was a warrior, he tirelessly battled his own demons until the bitter end. Yet despite his own struggles he would go out of his way to help others. He wanted nothing more than to be a hero and to save anyone who needed saving. Graham will be remembered by many people in the community for his caring and empathy. He was kind to strangers and friends with everyone. He seemed to attract the downtrodden and lost souls and always wanted to help people. Maybe giving help to others gave help to himself.

He loved nature. Wild rabbits would sit with him on the front porch. Countless pets, wild and domestic, found a loving home in his care. He especially loved his dog Gimli. He had a curious mind and was interested in everything in the world around him and had countless hobbies. He walked the city taking photos of people, sharing his talent. He befriended the shop keepers where he frequented, and the dog walkers, and the larpers who gathered in his favourite park. And many others that we didn't know about.

Graham lived more in his 47 years than many do in a 100 year lifetime.

A celebration of life will be held on October 11th from 6pm to 9pm at McEvoy Shields, 1411 Hunt Club Rd, Ottawa. Words of Remembrance will start at 7 PM.

Memorials or donations may be made to the Salvation Army.