'You're my superhero,' Sask. author Wes Funk remembered by friends and family

A couple hundred people gathered to celebrate the life of beloved Saskatoon author Wes Funk Saturday.

The 46-year-old passed away in his sleep on Oct. 9 at his home in Edmonton. He penned such books as Dead Rock Stars and Cherry Blossoms and hosted the weekly television show Lit Happens.

Friends and family gathered at Prairieland Park to remember the kind hearted and shy geek who had a fresh perspectives on rural Saskatchewan living and who never seemed to run out of energy.

“No matter where life’s journey has taken us, I know in my heart that we will be forever lasting,” Funk’s former husband Darwin Wagner said. “I love you poopsy, come polka with me anytime. I’m always up for a dance.”

Wagner remembered 23 years of sharing a home with Funk and their dogs. The couple were married in 2006 following the legalization of gay-marriage in Canada and enjoyed time keeping up their home, and spending evenings together with their pets.

Dozens of superhero-themed t-shirts dotted the attending crowd, a silent nod to Funk’s love of comics and popular culture.

His sister, Rev. Leila Currie presided over the ceremony while his nieces read one of his many poems.

Funk’s current partner Daryl Lorentz said he will miss Funk’s all-encompassing hugs. The couple had only recently moved in together in Edmonton.

“Why did you leave so soon?” Lorentz said. “I will never forget you. I love you Wesley Donald Funk. You’re my super hero.”