Obituary of Arnold Reimer

Arnold Reimer, aged 75, peacefully concluded his battle with heart disease, surrounded by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren, passing away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 2:12 p.m., in the comfort of his home in Steinbach, MB.

Arnold was born on May 15, 1948, in Landmark, and was the ninth child of twelve. He began his journey in Landmark where he accepted Christ as his personal Saviour and was baptized upon the confession of his faith at the age of 16.  When his parents announced that the family would be moving to Fisher Branch Arnold’s mom knew he was having a difficult time with this.  To encourage him she said: “doa vohet fleich nach en schmucket may-iks -ya zena", which means, “maybe you will find a pretty girl there.” (Well, Dad found mom, and the rest they say is history.) Arnold saw Minna Siemens; they both testify that it was  ‘love at first sight’ and Arnold married his soulmate Minna on October 26, 1968. They shared 55 years of unwavering love and devotion.

Arnold's life was marked by his faith in God, hard work, and a deep love for his family. After being sent up north to work in the lumber camps at the age of 16, he embarked on a career in framing houses at the tender age of 17, and continued for three decades until 1993. Arnold's framing prowess was legendary, and he imparted his skills to many, always emphasizing, "First you get good. Then you get fast." Well, he was fast and Arnold and one other partner, could frame a house from start to finish in 3 days. They worked house to house on one side of the street, and then crossed over and built the other side.

In 1994, Arnold hung up his hammer and transitioned to driving truck for Diamond Gravel, where he remained until 2019, when health concerns forced him into retirement. Despite his health challenges, Arnold considered his recovery from prostate cancer in 2013 a miraculous gift from his Heavenly Father.

Arnold was a devoted family man, cherishing moments spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Family trips to Disney World, Puerto Vallarta, and road trips to Banff and Georgia as well as long weekends at Detroit Lakes and Clear Lake created lasting memories.   Arnold also cherished many monthly Saturday morning McDonalds breakfasts with each individual grandchild.

Arnold’s ministry was in prayer. He was an avid prayer warrior, daily lifting others in prayer, praying 1,000’s of miles on the gravel truck and on his stationary bike, often without their knowledge.  In his retirement, Arnold pursued his love for reading, reading hundreds of biographies and auto-biographies, one of the latest being "Imagine Heaven." 

His love for Minna remained a steadfast beacon throughout their 55 years of marriage. In the later years when Arnold's health caused him to stay at home he still made efforts to date his sweetheart. Dad would ask mom if she wanted to go on a date with him to the Jets game. She would think about it and then consent, and join him for the Jets game. They watched on the couch.

Arnold's last days were filled with expressions of love and blessings for each member of his family, including his newest great-grandson, Drew. He passed away peacefully on April 3, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, solid faith, and a heart of compassion. While we know dad is joy-filled in Heaven, he leaves behind a massive hole in our family.

Arnold is survived by his devoted wife, Minna; his children, Leon & Valerie Reimer, and Roanne & Derik Bergmann; grandchildren Griffin & Katia Bergmann, Chantelle & Bailey Funk, Kadri & Nathan Neufeld, Kaden & Mykena Reimer; and great-grandson Drew Funk. He was predeceased by his parents, Isaac & Tina Reimer, and siblings Johnny, Clarence, Betty, and Lilly.

The memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach, MB, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Arnold Reimer's remarkable life and enduring legacy. To join the family via livestream, please click HERE shortly before the time of the service. 

"We love You Dad."