Obituary of Donald Heys

HEYS, DONALD JOSEPH (DON) September 29, 1939 - April 17, 2025 Peacefully, with his wife by his side, at Brierwood Gardens LTC. Predeceased by his parents, Eleanor (Heeney) and Joseph Heys of Brantford. Survived by his loving wife of 62 years, M. Hélène (Guilbert) and his much-loved sons, Joseph “Eric” (Linda) and Peter (Janet), as well as his adored granddaughters Emily Cassar (David), Madeline (Elliott), Laura and Grace, and great-granddaughter Willow Rose Cassar. He also leaves his cherished siblings, Paul (Sue) and Barbara Hall. Predeceased by Barbara’s husband Marvyn. Don was born, raised and spent his life in Brantford, with the exception of a 4-year sojourn that forever changed him. He graduated in the BCI Class of ’59, where he excelled at football (if not academics!). Don then enrolled in the Ryerson Radio and Television Arts program. This led to a job setting up cameras at Maple Leaf Gardens for Hockey Night in Canada, and then an offer to work as an announcer for CBC Armed Forces Radio in Metz, France. It was there that he met and immediately fell in love with Hélène, a member of the RCAF, in December 1961. They were married in August 1962 and welcomed Joseph into the world in October 1963. Pregnant again, they decided to return to Canada in 1964, where Peter was born in November. Their time in France was magical for them both, as they experienced travel, food and culture worlds away from small town Canada! Don spent the next 47 years of his career in the appliance and electronics business, first at Parsons, then as the owner of Don Heys Appliances at 193 Colborne St., which closed when he and Hélène decided to retire in 2011. Although the store was quite successful, Don’s real passions lay elsewhere, in music, golf and community service. Don performed in singing competitions and festivals well into his 40’s and was always a member of 2 or 3 choirs at any given time! He was an active member of the choir at Central Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, where he served as an Elder for many decades. He also cherished his 20+ years with the Brant Men of Song. Don golfed at least once a week for most of his life, only stopping in 2023 when his health would not allow him to continue. Don had an enormous impact on the city of Brantford. His volunteer efforts are too numerous to list, but highlights include the BIA, March of Dimes, Brantford Symphony Orchestra, Brantford Aquatic Club and his 47 years as a Rotarian. He served as club President and acted as Sargeant at Arms for nearly 20 years. He was a fixture as the announcer, along with his good friend Gary Surette, for the annual Rotary Classic Run and the Brantford Airshow. Perhaps his greatest contribution to Rotary was the establishment of the “Clowns for Kids” fundraiser at the annual Christmas Parade, which to date has raised over $650,000 for the Lansdowne Children’s Centre. Don always took great pride in his family, and it was with them that he was truly happiest. A most dedicated parent and grandparent, he was often the only father at a high school football game or track meet. He never missed a hockey game or swim meet, a graduation, concert or play. His greatest love, of course, was his wife Hélène. They were true partners in family and business, and his departure leaves Hélène with both great sadness and deep gratitude to have been blessed with such a wonderful life together. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Brierwood for their wonderful care of Don over the past 8 months. Please consider a donation to the Brant Alzheimer Society or the Rotary Club of Brantford. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, May 13 from 11:00am - 1:00pm at Beckett-Glaves Family Funeral Centre, 88 Brant Ave., Brantford, 519-752-4331. A tree will be planted in memory of Don in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.