We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved father, Wendelin Francis Heck Jr. (Wendel), has been called home to God, his Savior. He passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, with his daughter at his side, after valiantly battling cancer for many years. With unwavering faith, Wendelin embodied an extraordinary blend of grace and strength, leaving a lasting mark on our hearts and inspiring those around him. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life he lived.
Born on December 14, 1939, Wendelin grew up on a farm in the Friedenstal/Bluesky area of the Peace River Country. He was surrounded by the love and kindness of a large family and community, a powerful reminder of how deeply we can touch each other’s hearts.
Wendelin will be sadly missed every day by his children: Arlette Heck (daughter), Ryan Heck (grandson), Liora Beaulieu (Spouse), Richard Heck (son), Dana O’Connor (fiancée), and Makenzie Heck (granddaughter).
Wendelin was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Suzette Heck Creegan (1982); his parents, Wendelin and Monica Heck; and his sister, Ida Thoma.
As the third of fourteen children, he is survived by his loving siblings: Peter, Margaret, Ilene (Vernon), Caroline, Lorraine (Donald), Elizabeth (Fred), Genevieve, Anne, John, Frank, Evelyn (Aaron), and Elaine (Russell), along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his sisters-in-laws, Marjorie Heck, Dianne Heck, Adelaine Heck, and Lesley Heck, as well as his nieces Jilyn Heck, Susan Shaw, and Isla Clandinin, and brothers-in-law Pete Thoma, Fred Ramsay, Blaine Rolling, and Thor Holubowich.
As the years went on, Wendelin dedicated 13 years to the National Grain Elevator in Bluesky and then, in 1975, he made a life-changing move to Claresholm, southern Alberta, where he spent many fulfilling years working with Claresholm Custom Fertilizer, Agrium (Granum), and Morkin’s Agri Service Fertilizer until his retirement at age 70. Despite retiring, his passion for farming remained unwavering; he truly loved to combine and was the first to embrace the fields each season and the last to leave—a testament to his devotion to the earth.
A true pillar of his community, Wendelin volunteered endlessly, never seeking recognition but always extending a helping hand to those in need. His love for gardening flourished throughout his life, with both vegetables and flowers bringing him immense joy, which he generously shared with the community near and far. He had a deep affection for birds, tending to well over 75 canaries and 50 homing pigeons. Wendel was an active member of the Elks Club, served as a volunteer firefighter in Granum, and was an active curler on a team and at bonspiels.
Wendelin was also a man of deep faith and silent strength in his devotion to God and the Catholic Church.
He was the epitome of a family man, always placing his children, grandchildren, and his loyal cat Buddy at the forefront of his life. His warmth, humor, and generosity will be sorely missed, and his unwavering support during life’s challenges set a standard for all who were blessed to know him. Wendelin’s lifelong passion for gardening—whether growing vegetables, flowers, or planting trees—in both northern and southern Alberta is a powerful testament to his legacy.
His dedication leaves a lasting impact on all of us and serves as a tangible reflection of the love and beauty he cherished. Wendel will always be remembered in our hearts, and we trust that he now resides in eternal peace, embraced by God’s love.
A service will be held Saturday, November 8, 1:30 pm at Christ the King Catholic Church, Claresholm, 344 50 Ave West, Claresholm.
There will be no graveside service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Claresholm or Granum Food Banks.