On July 18, 2024, surrounded by her loving and devoted family, Bertha Lena Skye passed peacefully at her home. She had a long and fulfilling life, and she will be missed by many who loved and knew her. Born on June 5, 1932, in Shell Lake Saskatchewan, Bertha Lena Fraser was the daughter of Minnie and Norman Fraser. She was born into a family of 12 children. In 1955, she met Hubert Skye and they were married for 59 years until Hubert’s passing in 2015. Together they raised five children. Bertha held many roles in life that included chef, a Cree Nation elder in residence at Mohawk and Sheridan Colleges and McMaster University, Six Nations Health Foundation member and mentor to many people. Some of her accomplishments include being a Culinary Olympic Medalist, recognition as a Six Nations Community Treasure, receiving a Honourary Fellowship from Mohawk College, and a Honourary Doctorate from McMaster University. Her greatest accomplishment was the family and welcoming home that she and Hubert created together. Predeceased by her parents Minnie and Norman Fraser and siblings Blanche, Jimmy, Ruth, John, Gertie, Edith, Violet, Catherine, Gordon, and Dorothy. Husband Hubert Skye, daughter Deborah Skye, and son Darwin Skye (Pam). Bertha is survived by her children Pam Skye, Brian Skye and Denise Skye, and her brother Mervin Fraser. Grandmother of Stephanie (Shannon), Chris (Char), Courtney (Anthony), Sabrina (Joe), Kurt and Kimberly. Great Grandmother to 12 great grand babies. She was a special Auntie to Viola, Val, Roxanne, Greg, Bill, Norman & Tia, and special GammaB to Val. She was forever friends with Melba Thomas. She was a cherished chosen mom, grandmother, auntie and mentor to many extended family members and friends. “Remember me with smiles and laughter for that’s how I will remember you.”
Bertha will be brought to her 3405 River Range home on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 4 pm. Then on Sat July 20, she will go to R.H.B. Anderson Funeral Home in Hagersville, Ontario where everyone is welcome to join her family. Her visitation will be from 11 am to 6 pm and her Celebration of Life service at 6 pm to 8 pm. Bertha will be back at her home that night at 9 pm and her funeral service & burial will be at Lower Cayuga Longhouse starting at 11 am on Sunday, July 21, 2024. After the services at the Longhouse a meal will be served at the Gathering Place on Pauline Johnson Road.