The Roots and Life of Tim Cimmer
Timothy Cimmer’s story begins in the historic town of Battleford, Saskatchewan, where he grew up surrounded by the legacy of Native Indians, cowboys, and the remnants of Canada’s early governance. The town’s unique blend of history and natural beauty shaped him into the person he is today, a man with multiple talents and someone you can consider as a jack-of-all-trades, more specifically he is an entrepreneur, sportsman, hunter, and a community leader.
From a young age, Cimmer was captivated by the outdoors, often spending his time by himself, with his dog, or with his family exploring the wilderness and having a great time. Cimmer also ensures that no trash is left behind that could negatively affect the environment, local fauna, and the experience of others who love the outdoors. This early exposure to nature, combined with lessons of self-reliance and respect for the environment, became the foundation for his future endeavors.
A key part of Cimmer’s upbringing was his time spent at Keeley Lake, a place he considered a second home. Weekends at Keeley Lake were filled with fishing, hunting, and exploring, but they also taught Cimmer deeper lessons about sustainability and self-sufficiency. The lodge became a sanctuary where he developed his outdoor skills and gained a profound appreciation for the environment. For Cimmer, Keeley Lake was more than just a place—it was a gateway to understanding the interconnectedness of nature, community, and personal growth.
Cimmer’s connection to nature deeply influenced his entrepreneurial path. His respect for the land and its resources translated into his business ventures, most notably Future Now Energy, a company dedicated to providing affordable, eco-friendly energy solutions to the people of Saskatchewan. Cimmer’s goal wasn’t just to succeed in business but to do so in a way that contributed to the environment. His creation of the FN Foundation, which supports conservation projects across the province, is a reflection of his belief in sustainable development and giving back to the community that raised him.
In 2008, the town of Battleford, under the leadership of Mayor Chris Odishaw, signed a deal with FNE to supply natural gas, opting for the flexibility of private-sector competition over the fixed rates offered by the provincial Crown corporation, SaskEnergy. The decision paid off when the town received a rebate worth $18,035 in 2009, leading to a 20% savings on natural gas costs over six months. Cimmer, as president of FNE, highlighted how his company’s structure allowed them to move quickly in response to gas market changes, providing rebates and competitive pricing to customers. This initiative not only demonstrated Cimmer’s business acumen but also his ability to bring tangible benefits to his community. His creation of the FN Foundation, which supports conservation projects across the province, further reflects his belief in sustainable development and giving back to the community that raised him.
Cimmer’s dedication to his community also extends beyond business. Not only does he host organized events in which he donates the proceedings to the town of Battleford, he also donates natural gas to the charity of the Catholic Family Services. Showing that he has always prioritized fostering strong community ties. He is also known for having a major role in organizing Ice Cross, which brings residents together in a spirit of camaraderie and shared experience through sports. For Cimmer, these events represent more than entertainment—they symbolize the power of community, the importance of teamwork, and the value of maintaining traditions, all of which were instilled in him during his formative years in Battleford.
His passion for sports led him to participate in Red Bull’s Crashed Ice events, which combine extreme sports with thrilling ice racing. Inspired by this, Cimmer went on to create his own sport called Ice Cross, blending elements of speed skating and obstacle courses. Ice Cross has grown into a popular sport, showcasing Cimmer’s ability to turn his interests into impactful and engaging community events. His role in organizing and producing Ice Cross events has further cemented his place as a key figure in Saskatchewan’s sports and community life.
Talking about Tim’s passion for sports, Tim Cimmer’s athletic journey actually began at a young age with hockey, where he started playing as a novice at seven years old. His remarkable skill on the ice led him to surpass 300 points and become one of the fastest skaters in the hockey world. Cimmer played alongside notable players like Wade Belak, Blair Achnum, and Ryan Smith, and idolized Wayne Gretzky. A highlight of his early career was meeting Wayne Gretzky and his father, Walter, in Ontario, where he received a private tour of Gretzky’s collection and even a piece of Walter Gretzky’s private memorabilia.
Cimmer’s hockey career eventually took him to play with the national team in Australia, where he won 30 gold and silver medals. Known for his speed, he played both center and left wing, often outpacing even seasoned professionals like Wade Belak. His competitive spirit continued as he transitioned to Ice Cross, where he faced initial challenges but demonstrated resilience. After a difficult start with an injury and a failed attempt at Red Bull’s Crashed Ice, Cimmer persisted, improving his skills and understanding of the sport. His dedication led him to create his own Ice Cross league in Finland in 2014, achieving significant recognition. Despite setbacks, including a severe accident and personal losses, Cimmer’s determination to establish Ice Cross as an Olympic sport remained strong. His efforts, though facing various obstacles, underscore his commitment to innovation and his enduring passion for sports.
Timothy Cimmer’s life is a living reflection of how the environment we grow up in can shape us in profound ways. From the history-rich streets of Battleford to the serene lakes where he fished as a boy, every part of his early life influenced the man he became. His story isn’t just one of personal growth, it’s a tale of how the land, history, and community can mold a person’s values and define their legacy.
