Obituary of Harold Fast

Harold Fast, born June 11, 1927, (age 95) formerly of Kleefeld, passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Niverville Heritage Life Personal Care Home.

He is survived by his children: Sandra, Randy, Mike (Rose), Terri (Larry), Patrick (Laurel) and Cheryl (Norm), 14 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, two brothers, one sister, and two sisters-in-law.

Dad was predeceased by his wife Nettie of 71 years, his parents George and Elizabeth Fast and his step mom Anna, one sister, one brother, two sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, daughter-in-law Judy and grandson Randy Jr.

Dad grew up in the Kleefeld area and attended Gruenfeld School. He was an active member of the Kleefeld EMC Church and was baptized there on the confession of his faith. Dad and Mom met through the church and were married on June 12, 1949. They enjoyed a long life together, living on a small acreage just outside of Kleefeld for over 60 years.

Dad began working for the R.M. of Hanover at the age of 18, and continued working there for almost 50 years, ending as the supervisor of the public works department. Dad’s dedication to his community was amazing. From being a founding member in the creation of the Kleefeld Park, to flooding the outdoor rinks in winter, to helping cook the famous Kleefeld Honey Festival chicken, dad always gave his time. In recognition for his outstanding service to Kleefeld and the R.M., Dad received the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal.

Some of dad's passions were being outdoors; tending to his garden, fishing, walking the trails he made and finding and planting hundreds of trees on their property. He also invented numerous tools to help with things on the acreage and after he retired, enjoyed woodworking. 

In 2016, mom and dad moved to Bridgepark Manor in Steinbach, but health issues necessitated a move for dad to the Niverville PCH in 2020.

Dad loved his family and especially enjoyed when the grandkids came over to visit and made sure they had many fun activities to do on the acreage. 

Dad, you will be missed but we are thankful you are free from pain and with mom, the love of your life. 

As a family we want to extend our sincere thank you to Niverville Heritage Personal Care Home and the amazing staff who cared for dad!

Viewing will take place on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB, with burial to follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Kleefeld Evangelical Mennonite Church Cemetery, 25121 Rd 35 N, Kleefeld, MB.

The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 3:30 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel. Steinbach, MB. Harold may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee or a charity of one’s choice.