Wilmer James Fast

Wilmer James Fast

December 14, 1931 – February 11, 2025

Wilmer Fast was born in Saskatoon, SK to Jacob and Anna Fast. He was the youngest of 3 siblings, raised on a farm near Dalmeny Sk. He committed his life to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at the age of 6. Dad spoke of this experience as significant in his life, strong in his memory. He spoke of many relapses and re-assessing since, but that this decision remained steadfast for the rest of his life.

Wilmer’s young life was shaped by working on the farm in the summer, and travelling with his parents to live in Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and later Oregon where many of his relatives had settled. This complicated his education, transitioning to different schools and taking correspondence when in the States. Adapting to small town life and absences from classes half of each year was challenging, especially in the high school years. He learned to adapt quickly to changing environments. Using these skills, he was able to hold very interesting jobs in high school including work in carpentry, building houses with his dad and working as a chauffer in Chicago. The most exciting position was to work for a car dealership in Oregon owned by the Governor of that State. This involved being part of the maintenance crew, and shuttling customers to and from work, often politicians. 

After graduating from high school Wilmer attended CaronportBible School. His dream was to attend the University of Saskatchewan but the tuition was out of reach. He chose to attend the Mennonite Bible School in Winnipeg, enrolling in the music course focussing on piano and voice. Although these studies did not assist him in making a living, it assisted him in making a life. 

Wilmer met Carrie at his sister’s and her brother’s wedding(Ernie and Leona Schmidt). Carrie sang at the wedding and Wilmer was the photographer. Wilmer was accused of taking more pictures of Carrie than the bride! They were married in 1955 and lived in Dalmeny for 10 years. Wilmer farmed in the summer and drove truck in the winter. During this time they had two children. 

Wilmer and Carrie moved to Saskatoon in 1965. Wilmer pursued opportunities in the trucking business, resulting in a manager position with Reimer Express Lines. He held this position until he retired. Wilmer and Carrie were very active in their church, singing in choirs and quartets. They led the Children’s Junior Church, which was filled with music and singing children, it was their passion and joy.

Wilmer was a very positive influence on everyone around him. It didn’t matter who you were or what walk of life you were on, he treated everyone the same. They were his friends. He had somany interests including fishing and camping but water skiing was his passion. He also worked on vehicles, constructed his own garage, you name it, life was a challenge and he was up to it. 

Wilmer was a loving father, exciting to be around, a mentor and model for his family. He had so much faith even when hardships looked insurmountable. He saw difficult situations as growth, and often made amazing friendships through life’s challenges, benefitting him in later years. 

In 2019, Carrie’s health declined but dad was a devoted caregiver. He was always so positive, meeting her needs in the face of declining mobility and memory. Unfortunately, he was hospitalized for an extended time in 2021, and she was placed first in respite and then in a care home as her health had declined. Care in their home was not possible. This was devasting to both mom and dad as they had never been separated.  Dad remained strong and would make his weekly visits to the home to spend time with mom. Carrie passed away in 2023. They were married 68 years.

Wilmer moved forward with his life without Carrie. Although it wasn’t easy, he was thankful for his community at Luther Heights and Forest Grove Community Church. He enjoyed morning coffee with the guys, singing in the Christmas musicals, playing pool and bantering with his friends. He was always quick with opening comments drawing people in. 

Wilmer is survived by his children Debbie Leniuk (Jason); Sandy Gibson (Bruce); 2 grandchildren Amy Gibson (Sean McDonald); Kristan Gibson (Mitch Haver); and 3 great-grandchildren Nora and Archer McDonald and Ellie Haver.

A Memorial service will take place on Saturday, February, 22, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Forest Grove Community Church.

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE STREAM LINK OF MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE WILMER FAST
(A copy of the live stream will also be available to view after the service at the link above. The copy will be available for approximately 6 months.)

Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.