Thomas Peter Fast

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather and friend, Tom Fast. After a lengthy battle with illness he passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023. He is predeceased by his Mother, Nellie, Father, Peter and infant son George. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his partner, Marianne, sons, Tristan and Jamie, and their families.

Tom was born in Steinbach on February 28, 1949 to Nellie and Peter Fast. He has two older siblings Cecil (Esther) and Gladys. He was married to Marianne on June 21, 1974. They had two sons, Tristan and Jamie.

Tom was never big on structured education and left high school in the 11th grade. Shortly after, he started his own honey farm. He worked hard and loved the process of farming honey. This took up most of his working life for 30 years. He also enjoyed landscaping work in all capacities: from installing brickwork to keeping lawns in pristine condition. He took pride in making things look beautiful.

Cars were always a big part of Tom’s life. Starting at a young age he was always tinkering, breaking, and fixing a vehicle of some kind. Some of his favourites were his Desoto, Porsche 911, and VW pickup. All vehicles were as unique as he was. He was also a keen car racing fan, having travelled around the USA and Canada to watch events.

With the winters free from beekeeping, Tom focused on woodworking projects in the workshop. The styles and techniques of each project always varied, but there was always something on the go, from bird houses to furniture. Close to Christmas the family was banned from the shop so as to not spoil the surprise of handmade Christmas gifts.

To talk about Tom is almost the same as talking about the shop. It was his spot and the location he felt the most comfortable. There was always a project on the go and music on the radio. And consistently at 3 pm, all work stopped and it was time for a Pepsi. Often friends would happen to show up at exactly 3 pm since they knew that it was time to have a Pepsi and a chat. Those were some of his most cherished times.

Gardening was another thing that Tom enjoyed doing. He prided himself in growing amazing flowers and vegetables. While it was hard to not be able to do the work himself, Tom was proud to design and direct construction of the new family garden on the yard last summer. 

Closer to the end of his life, when his mobility was failing him, he could be seen ripping around the yard on his scooter, making sure everything in the organized chaos was just where it was supposed to be.

After he moved to Rest Haven Care Home his most cherished times were when friends and family would visit, and take him for a walk to enjoy some fresh air.

The family would like to express an enormous thank you to all the support from friends and family over the last few weeks.

The family would also like to extend a special thank you to staff at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre, and the Rest Haven Care Home for their kindness and compassionate care.