(GoFundMe)

By Ian Gustafson

Over $100,000 raised

Community rallies behind family of Josh Reimer, a local teacher who tragically passed away

Apr 24, 2025 | 12:20 PM

The central Alberta community has shown up for the family of Josh Reimer amidst an unfathomable tragedy.

Two days ago, his family’s life was flipped upside down when he died in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 20, south of Bentley.

Both drivers were taken to hospital with serious injuries and Reimer, who was just 29-years-old, was taken to hospital in critical condition and later pronounced deceased.

The highway was closed and reopened later that day. In addition, police said in a media release on the day of the collision, that their preliminary investigation suggested poor road conditions were a contributing factor.

However, the local community has wrapped their arms around the family when they need it most. A GoFundMe was created for the family just over 24 hours ago and in that time has raised nearly $104,000 and counting.

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According to the GoFundMe organizer, Taryn Sparrow, she wrote, they’re raising funds to help ease the financial burden for Reimer’s family.

It will be used to cover funeral expenses, medical costs, and provide some stability for his wife Shanyn and two daughters. The couple also has another baby on the way.

“There is nothing Josh loved more in the world than the Lord, his wife and his children. The pain of his passing is immeasurable, but so is the love he poured into his family, community, church, and classroom,” as written on the GoFundMe.

Reimer was a father, husband, son, brother, friend, and teacher from Red Deer. Those who knew him described him as a kind soul who was always there to lend a hand when needed.

Sparrow said any contribution is deeply appreciated and if you’re unable to give, consider sharing the GoFundMe page to help reach others who may want to support.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your prayers, your generosity, and your love during this incredibly difficult time.”

In a statement posted to Facebook from Rimbey Christian School, where Reimer worked as a Grade 7-9 teacher, they said his faith guided every part of his life, and he touched many hearts.

“We the staff and students at the school want to extend our thanks and appreciation for the love and support that has been shown through the emails, flowers, food, prayers, pastoral support and counselling that we have received from our school family, the larger Christian school family, the public school system, the Rimbey community and communities abroad,” as written in the post.

The school also said they are starting a fund for the family of Austin Bueckert, a Grade 5-6 teacher from the school that was involved in the collision. He was airlifted to Edmonton and remains there recovering from his injuries at this time, according to the school.

They’re asking the public to drop off any donations at the school office or etransfer to business@rimbeychristianschool.com with a memo that says Austin.

“We appreciate all of your prayers for the school. Cards may be dropped off at the school any time and we will be sure to pass any condolences on to Josh and Austin’s families,” they continued.

Redemption Church Red Deer posted a statement on their Facebook Page sharing their support for the family.

“It is with great sadness, that we share of the passing of Josh Reimer. Earlier this week, the Lord called Josh Reimer home. The road ahead will be challenging for the Reimer’s, extended family and friends, but we are reminded in God’s word that we are able to grieve as those who have hope,” as written in the post. “Though we weep over him no longer being here, we rejoice that he has found fullness of life. Please continue to pray for the family during this season.”