Peacefully on August 18, 2025, Wilmer Fingas passed away at the Portage and District Hospital at the age of 92 years.
Wilmer was predeceased by his wife, Victoria. He is survived by his son Cameron and wife Diane, son Kim and wife Kimberley, daughter Michelle and husband Dwight; his grandchildren Jarett (Jacqueline), Dana (Jordy), Tracey (Blaine), Kelley (Brook), and Taylor (Joelle); as well as his great grandchildren Lane, Quinn, Ellie, Florence and Attley.
Wilmer was born on January 16, 1933, in Russell, Manitoba. He grew up on the family farm in Inglis, Manitoba, where he started his life-long love of farming. While in Inglis, Wilmer met Vicki who had come to town as a new teacher at the local school. Wilmer and Vicki were married in 1956 and lived on the farm at Inglis, where Cameron and Kim were born.
In 1963 Wilmer and Vicki purchased a farmstead in High Bluff and the family moved to Portage la Prairie where Michelle was born. When McCain Foods opened their potato processing plant in Portage in 1980, Wilmer, Cam and Kim went into partnership with Ron Tidsbury and his sons Grant and Keith, who also farmed in the High Bluff area. Hi-Port Potatoes was formed and the families ventured into potato farming together. After learning the ropes of growing potatoes, the partnership ended and both families continued to grow potatoes for many years. Wilmer thoroughly enjoyed farming. Even after he had retired and Cam and Kim took over the farm, Wilmer helped out whenever needed and even ran a combine when he was well into his eighties. Up until his last days, Wilmer took pleasure in going for a drive to check out the crops and provide advice (usually unsolicited) to Cam and Kim.
Wilmer was a proud father and grandfather. He and Vicki took pleasure in attending the grandkids’ school events and sporting activities. They also enjoyed travelling as well as going to various casinos.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Felicia for the excellent care and friendship she provided to Wilmer. As well, we would like to thank the staff at the Portage and District Hospital for the compassion shown to Wilmer and the family during his brief stay.
Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Wilmer’s name to Sunset Palliative Care Box 92, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3B2 or the Portage District Hospital Foundation, 524 - 5th St. SE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3A8.
A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. http://www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com