With love and appreciation for a life so fully lived, we announce the passing of Edward "Ed" Heck on May 4, 2025, at the Didsbury Hospital. He was 89 years old.

Born to Christian and Katherine Heck in Mendham, Saskatchewan, on May 17, 1935, Ed was raised with strong prairie values that shaped his life of hard work, kindness, and service. He attended elementary school in Saskedge and high school in Mendham, leaving in Grade 10 to help on the family farm.

From a young age, Ed was drawn to animals—especially horses. He had a deep connection with them and a true cowboy's spirit. He tried his hand at roping in rodeos and never lost his love for riding. One of his proudest memories was riding his beloved horse, Hasty, in the Calgary Stampede—a moment that captured the essence of who he was.

In 1960, Ed moved to Calgary and worked with his brother Matt at a service station. Eventually, he managed several stations of his own, but none meant more to him than Sunset Texaco, where he became fondly known as "Sunset Eddy." In 1972, Ed moved his family to the farm and continued working hard in everything he took on. After leaving the farm in 1983, he moved to Acme and continued his career in the automotive world at Rollie Motors in Three Hills and Kesler Garage in Acme. Later, he became manager at Federated Co-op in Linden, where he worked until retirement at age 65—though "retirement" never really suited him.

Just six weeks later, Ed went back to work, this time with Sunterra Farms, where he often drove over 900 kilometers a day. He continued there until the age of 80. Ed's dedication to work was only matched by his commitment to his community. He served as a councillor for the Village of Acme, was a member of the Acme Hall Board, and a devoted Elks member for over 50 years.

Ed married Betty Doherty on August 15, 1987, and together they built a life full of love, service, and adventure. After retiring, they moved to a condo in Airdrie, where Ed became president of the condo board, general handyman, and recycling champion. Even after moving to Sage Hill Retirement Centre in 2020, he continued helping wherever he could. In 2024, as his health needs increased, Ed moved to Bethany Care Centre, where he spent his final days.

Ed and Betty loved to travel. Some of their favourite memories were made on a bus tour to Alaska and a cruise down the Rhine River.

Ed is survived by his loving wife Betty; his sons Michael (Karen), Christian (Deanna), and Phillip; his stepchildren Colleen (Douglas), Marjorie (Rene), Eugene (Shannon), and Cameron (Leslie); his 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; his sister Bernie and brother Peter; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his parents Christian and Katherine Heck, his brother Matthew, sisters Marie, Rose, Ann, Elizabeth, and Eleanor, four brothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law.

Ed was known for being always on the go, always generous, and always willing to lend a hand. Whether working late nights at the casino, raising money for charity, or helping out family and neighbors with whatever was needed, Ed showed up—and gave his all. He was generous to a fault and made everyone feel valued.

He will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye, the pride he took in everything he did, and the way he brought people together. His grandchildren lovingly knew him as "Grandpa", and his step-grandchildren fondly called him "Gramps."

As we say goodbye, we remember the phrase that brought smiles and laughs to so many who knew him:

"What the Heck, Heck?"

Happy trails, Ed, until we meet again.

A private Funeral Mass for IMMEDIATE FAMILY only will be held .

All are welcome to a Celebration of Life that will be held May 31st at 1pm at the Acme Community Centre. Lunch will be served.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Elks & Royal Purple Fund for Children