Justice John Skowronski

Justice Skowronski is one of the finest men I have had the honour and privilege of knowing.

Fair, compassionate and respected.

Sincerely

Bob Seneshen

I had something in common with Justice Skowronski, coming from the same small northern Ontario town of Timmins. Like his hometown, “Skow” had a heart of gold and was highly valued by everyone who knew and loved him, not only at the London courthouse but also in the broader community which he served. It was a privilege to have known him during the time I worked at the courthouse and I will remember him for his inherent goodness, but also for his humour and wit.

Condolences to Cindy who dedicated her life to ensuring John felt loved and cared for.
Jane, Ken, Kenndall and Rhea stood tirelessly by John’s bedside throughout his hospital stay.
I pray you all find comfort in knowing your presence brought John peace.
May John now RIP in the loving arms of his Father and Mother now reunited.

Our condolences to Cindy, Jane, Ken, Kenndall & Rhea, thinking of you all.
I know the last couple of weeks of spending days and nights with John must have been exhausting, I am sure he felt your presence and was comforted by your care and compassion.
John was so fortunate to have all of you in his life, especially in these last months and most importantly his final days. I can’t even imagine how hard it has been for all of you.
Rest in peace John, you sure gave it your best fight.

I had the privilege of working with His Honour in the WASH Court when we were Crowns, appeared many times before him as trial counsel, and enjoyed his wise advice as a judicial colleague.

I will never forget His Honour’s kindness and compassion. He had such an appreciation for others and particularly the downtrodden. The lessons that he taught me, through his powerful example, have had a profound effect on my work. He always encouraged me.

Justice Skowronski’s family and many friends are in my thoughts and prayers.

Craig

For John’s family, please take my condolences to heart. John was a good person.

I met John, and his brother Jerry, when our family moved to Timmins, as all the kids congregated at Melrose playground. I also remember him from grade 12 and 13 in high-school, where John was good in basketball and distance running. When I next crossed paths, we were both working in London, and although I didn’t deal very much with John directly through work, I certainly heard good things about him, particularly when he joined the crown attorney’s office, and latterly, when he became a judge. The esteem in which he was held in the legal community was certainly memorialized clearly by the local paper, which also noted the impact of the unique northern Ontario background that John had, and its bearing in his perspective.

John was an experienced Crown when I was a student and then a junior lawyer, but he always spoke to me as if I was every bit as important as the most seasoned and accomplished lawyer. His humanity, integrity, and how he treated people will always remain with me.

I was fortunate to begin my Crown career with him in the office. I have so many stories, but one in particular he shared with me when he was speaking about work ethic was “don’t ever let your hand shake when you collect your paycheck.” It was just classic Skow, and I have carried that message with me throughout my career.

I was fortunate to run into John shortly before his retirement. I was waiting in the lobby for a judicial pre-trial with another judge, and when he saw me he came out to say hi (of course he did) and I gave him a big hug. It was the last time I saw him, and I will cherish that moment – as I will cherish all of my memories of him – forever.

To his family – please know how much we all loved and respected this man.