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Name: Janet Split Second
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: There will never be another person like Derek Heard. He was such a strong – yet gentle man in many ways. He was a very loving, protective husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. Ray and I worked with Derek at Mead Johnson for many years. He was always very friendly and witty and made new friends easily. He was loyal but expected the same loyalty back in return.
Derek loved his family immeasurably and when he gave his daughter a dog one Christmas – “Stanley”, he quickly became a precious pet to Derek as well. Derek was also a caregiver to his daughter Janie for many years.
Derek was not only an excellent hockey player, but after retiring from hockey he skated at Memorial Arena at least once a week for entertainment. He was instrumental in getting Ray and I together after both of our spouses had passed away.
We had many lovely meals together. He had a tremendous appetite, but don’t serve him broccoli – not a favourite of his. We introduced him to tartar sauce for his favourite fish and chips. He really enjoyed a good loaded hamburger, fish fry and turkey dinner.
Derek loved Tim’s coffee and donuts and when we visited him in his retirement / nursing home and could no longer accompany us in the car to Tim’s. He certainly looked forward to these treats. He also liked to have picnics and KFC was always a favourite. On one of these occasions Derek was vigorously eating his KFC and swallowed a bee. He said “no fuss” and ate on.
A couple times a week Derek’s two daughters would drive him to the Quinte Mall Food Court for a couple of hours and he would meet his many friends for coffee, laughter and conversation. He sang in Christ church Choir a few years ago. He was always so excited by his daughter Susie’s visits from Australia. He was always ready to discuss results of NHL Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings games.
Derek enjoyed growing his vegetable garden and for many years planted beautiful flowers in his sister Anne’s garden.
Derek’s strength was unbelievable even in later years and what about that handshake? Whether greeting or leaving he would grip your hand and you could almost hear the knuckles moan. Once in a while if he lost his cool, he would make a fist – then laugh!
Derek had a great hearty laugh and cheered a lot of folks with his jokes. He also gave the ladies a little cute wink (just teasing) because we all knew the true love of his life would always be his wife “Jinnie”.
Derek was very popular when he joined the Single Group club, who met for dancing every Friday night at the Fish and Game Club.
During Derek’s wonderful 94 years he was an all-around fascinating individual and he will be missed immensely by all his numerous friends, fans and family – but always in our memories.

Rest in Peace Derek
And carry-on in your New Home.
Love You – Linda & Ray Sarles
Name: Sarah Jane Yarmola
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: My deepest condolences to Derek's family. We were neighbours years ago and moved but we stayed in touch and shared a few meals together. He was a real gentleman and loved by all that new him. He always had a storey for me and showed real concern for me. RIP Derek as I know you will be missed by all . Hugs
Name: Ken Lessels
In memory of: DEREK HEARD
Message: Sharon and I would like to add our condolences to Derek's family on their loss of a true gentleman and a friend to all who knew him.
I met Derek, shortly after I started at Mead Johnson in 1967. Derek worked in the Pablum area at the time. He was a true gentleman and was admired by everyone who had the privilege to know him.
If there was ice to be found, you knew Derek would be there. He loved his hockey and was a stalwart on the blue line.
After our retirements, I was fortunate to visit him in a number of homes in the Quinte area. Derek always spoke lovingly and often of his family. He will certainly be missed by all his family and friends.
I count it a privilege to have been one of his friends. Derek, you will be greatly missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing you.
Ken and Sharon Lessels
Name: Gary Doyle
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: To be considered a friend to Derek was certainly a great gift and honour. His love and caring of his wife, children and friends was always his main focus. Of course, and then there was hockey, which he loved with a great passion, both as an endless player and a fan. And then there was Gordie Howe who seemed to play forever just like Derek and was his hero.
I know there will be hockey to be played in the afterlife and Derek will be on the blue line with all of his hockey heroes, his family and loved ones cheering him on from the bleachers. Now that will be heaven...
To Nancy and Sue, I wish you peace and some smiles about the character your dad was, and how much he loved you both.
Keep your stick ready Derek, your shift is coming...
Rest well my old friend, you won't be forgotten quickly.
Gary Doyle
GARY DOYLE
January 26, 2022
Name: Terry and Sue Stevenson
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: Sending our love, our thoughts and big hugs to Nancy, Susie,Tim,Ray,Dylan,Megs,Neil,Alisha,Amy and their
families! Derek was such a special person in our lives too! He was kind, had a wonderful sense of humor and he was strong like his handshake! We will miss him terribly! He is with his beloved Jinnie and Janie dancing up a storm I'm sure! Love to you all! Godspeed Derek!
Terry,Sue,Lindsay,Ryan,Kim and family
Name: Jean Tomso
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: I am so sorry for your loss. Derek was a true, true gentleman with a very kind heart. I used to work with Derek at Mead Johnson and have named one of my boys in his honour with the same name. I often thought if I could have a son that would be anywhere near as kind and gentle as Derek, it would be a win! He was such a pleasure to be with, and yes like others I was honoured to be asked to dance with him at the Christmas parties. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel, and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Jean Tomaso
Name: Terrance Jarrell
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: I was sad to hear of Derek's passing. I knew Derek through my mother Ione Jarrell. Derek was in late 70's/early 80's at that point and still playing hockey, biking and roller blading like a man 30 years younger. I was never much of a hockey player but based on his firm hand shake, I am positive he could have "pushed my off the puck" despite my 30+ years age advantage. He was an inspiration to me as someone who wants to stay active into my later years. Derek was a true gentleman and was always interested in what others were doing. My prayers and thoughts go out to Derek's family and friends. Terry Jarrell
Name: Duane Akey
In memory of: Derek Heard
Message: We are so sorry for your loss. .Derek was a Gentleman with a kind heart and a passion for his family , friends and all that he met. My wife Judy and i worked at Meads with Derek for many years he was always cheerful and willing to help some one when needed. I played hockey with him at the Yardman arena and on the bay many times over the years and learned of the passion he had for the game also how big his elbows were when trying to take the puck from him in the corners, Mr Hockey was a good sportsman and always smiled when lacing up or taking off his skates.. The Mead Johnson Christmas Parties were another spot Derek shone as he and Jinnie twirled around the dance floor and he would always ask my wife to dance with him winking at me and telling Judy that she should take me to dance classes. .Derek was a shoulder to lean on or a kind ear to listen.. The world has lost a Real Gentleman but Heaven has gained an Angel .. All our thoughts and prayers Duane & Judy Akey
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