Fast, Anna Becker (1897-2002)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2003 Mar 21 p. 29

Birth date: 1897 Aug 3

text of obituary:

ANNA FAST

Anna Fast passed away Nov. 27. She was born to Peter and Katharina Becker in Franztal, Ukraine Aug. 3, 1897. She accepted Christ at age 18. At age 20 she fled to Crimea and lived in a sod hut on her brother's yard until 1922 when she and brother Jake began their trip to the US. Because of illness, they were detained and had to take a Greek freighter, the only human passengers amidst many sheep. They settled in Mountain Lake, Minn. She worked to pay her travel debts. She married John Neufeld Mar. 13, 1924. They pioneered in a forest in Newport, Wash. A son was born but died 3 days later. They moved to Chicago, Ill. In 1930 they moved to Saskatchewan to be near John's mother and siblings, settling in Laird, Sask. After 9 hard years they moved to Yarrow, B. C., farming in Sumas Prairie for 13 years, then on a smaller farm before retiring in Yarrow. They moved to Clearbrook, B.C. in 1971. John died in 1976. She married Abram Fast Oct. 15, 1978. They moved to Sherwood Manor in 1985, then to Menno Home 8 years later. Abram died a year later. Anna moved to Menno Hospital for her last 3 years. She was totally blind and completely bedridden but her mind was still alert. When asked on her 101 birthday for the secret of her long life, she replied " My faith in God and His continuing strength." Her favourite Scriptures were Ps. 121 and 119:105. Anna is remembered for her tireless work, love for music, prayers for her children and her enduring faith. She is mourned by son Al; daughters Katie Dyck and Anne; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren. The funeral was Nov. 30 in Menno Hospital Chapel, with Doris Rempel and H. Claassen ministering.