Obituary of Wilfrad Fred Tanner

TANNER - Fred (Wilfred) Tanner was born June 3rd, 1919 on Gambler First Nation. The son of Joseph and Margaret Tanner (nee Fleury), he was one of three boys and nine girls. He grew up in the Spyhill area and attended Lebret Residential School. While working on the railroad Fred met his companion Marjorie Johnson and they were later blessed with two wonderful children, their son Eugene and daughter Beverly. Fred worked on the railroad for several years until he moved to Carmen, Manitoba where he worked restoring Model Ts. The family later moved to Brandon and then Esterhazy all the while working with various farmers. He then moved to Langenburg where he settled and called this home for many years. Fred had a love for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and loved fishing. He spent many hours in his yard and his green thumbs were known to produce many beautiful flowers and a wonderful garden. Fred's true passion was music which started at a very young age. He was one of those rare individuals who was able to pick up any instrument and play. His love for playing the fiddle is shown through his many trophies throughout the years. He was at his best when playing the fiddle and singing for his family. Family was very important to Fred. He was known to have numerous photos with him at all times. His door was always open to anyone who would stop by. He always offered a hot tea, fresh baking or a home cooked meal. No one ever left without a few good stories and a chuckle or two. Those who have met Fred will never forget his sense of humour, his wonderful warm smile and his contagious giggle. For the last year and a half Fred lived on Gambler First Nation with his son Eugene, his daughter- in-law Evelyn and their two dogs, Little Bear and Moe. After a lengthy battle with diabetes and lung disease, Fred passed away peacefully on October 6th, 2009 at the Russell Hospital at the age of 90 years with his son and daughter-in-law by his side. Fred is predeceased by his father Joseph on April 9th, 1927; his mother Margaret on May 9th, 1981; his companion Marjorie Johnson on February 5th, 2009; his brothers Riel Tanner and Arthur Tanner; and sisters Mary Jane Fiddler, Annie Pritchard, Rosalie Langan, Elizabeth Lipine, Madeline Prescott, Sarah Bihun and Jean Houle. Fred leaves to celebrate his life and to cherish his memory, his loving children and their families; his son Eugene (Evelyn) and their children Katreena, Nelson, Neil and Kelly; his daughter Beverly (William) and their children Michael, Christine, Cynthia and James. He also leaves to mourn his passing; eleven great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and countless friends. Service Information Tuesday, October 13th, 2009 10:00am, St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church Interment Details Yorkton Memorial Gardens