We, the family, are deeply saddened to announce the passing of John Charles (Hank) Heinekamp, 84, on Thursday March 23, 2023.

Hank was the son of the late Heinrich and Margaret (Bennett) Heinekamp.

Besides his parents, Hank was predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years Freada (Smolensky) Heinekamp; brothers Herman, Bobby, Sonny and Leonard; sisters Margaret, Tina and Charlotte, as well as beloved daughter, Sandra, in infancy.

He is survived by his five sons, Herman (Shirley) of Lingan, Morgan of Ontario, Eugene (Iris) of Scotchtown, Delbert (Joy) and Michael (Joyce) of New Waterford; sister Delores Hutchinson; grandchildren Sandra Heinekamp, Samantha (Doug) Heinekamp, Anne Marie/Charles Heinekamp, George Woodland, Michelle (Kyle) O’Connell, Charlie Heinekamp and Liam (Anna) Marsh. Hank was also great-grandfather to Gavin, Seth, Esme, Gabriel and Raelynn. Also left to mourn are brother-in-law Edward (Gina) Smolensky, and sister-in-law Violet Mohr, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Hank was a true jack of all trades, wearing many hats over the years. He was a coal miner in his early years, as well as a taxi driver and well known backyard mechanic. There were many afternoons spent repairing vehicles, and at least once, rebuilding an engine on Freada’s kitchen floor (only once!). Anyone walking by would stop to chat, and Hank was fondly known as the mayor of 8^th street. He could fix just about anything; and if he couldn’t, then most likely no one could.

He was the one we called whenever there was an issue; plumbing, electrical, and so much more. And he showed up, every time, ready to help.

He also enjoyed playing guitar with his neighbors, playing practical jokes with his CB club, air brushing Freada’s ceramics, playing baseball and camping, and later RVing.

In his later years, he spent many hours researching the family tree, going to yard sales, spending time with his grandchildren, and helping Freada with her many projects.

There are so many stories to share, and in the coming days those that loved him will gather together to share those stories, mourn his death and celebrate his life.

We would like to thank the incredible nursing staff of 4B at the C.B Regional Hospital and 4 East at Northside General for the amazing care provided to dad. They are caring, compassionate, and perform and extraordinarily difficult job with humor and grace. Thank you just does not seem to capture it all, but thank you.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 30, 2023 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. with a service on Friday, March 31 at 10 a.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Father Godwin Obike officiating. Cremation will follow. Immediately after the service, all are welcome to attend a reception at the Knights of Columbus Hall, New Waterford. Burial of Hank and Freada will take place this summer.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Lung Association. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.