Donald James Heber

Don passed away suddenly at the Cross Cancer Institute on March 27, 2026 at the age of 77 years after making a valiant effort to battle cancer. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Debbie, their children Donnie (Claudia) Heber and Danielle (Vern) Sroka as well as 5 grandchildren Camila Heber, Maya Sroka, Lily Sroka, Lorenzo Heber and Hali Sroka. He is Also survived by his siblings; Eileen (George) Merik, Jean Hendrickson, Arthur (Betty) Heber, Walter Heber, Carol (Ron) Marion, Ronald (Bonnie) Heber, Kenneth Heber and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mary Heber as well as his twin brothers Douglas Heber and David Heber. His brother-in-law Ron Hendrickson had also passed. Don was born in Viking, Alberta on September 24, 1948 to Mary and Joseph Heber. Don grew up in Bruce experiencing many mischievous adventures as well as making numerous lifelong friendships. As Don matured, he continued his mischievousness and practice of making new friends wherever he went. He was a hard worker and tried his hand at many things before settling on a career in hotel management. In 1975, Don married Debbie Rae Szakacs and went on to have two children, Donnie and Danielle. Don and Debbie spent their first year of marriage in Lamont where they had met when they both worked for Lamco Gas Co-op Ltd. In 1976, they moved to Onoway to manage the Onoway Hotel. They remained in Onoway raising their family and running the hotel for 23 years, selling the hotel in 1999. After that, they spent almost two years in Rainbow Lake managing the Rainbow Inn. From there, the next stop was the Park Hotel in Wainwright until Don retired in 2011. Don spent his retirement in Edmonton the same way he spent his youth; being mischievous, making friends and being sociable. Our thanks to all of you who visited, who checked-in and who helped keep his spirits up. All of you provided Don with the socializing he always loved. We owe special gratitude to the doctors, the nurses and the staff of the Cross Cancer Institute. The kindness and care we received was extraordinary. They are true angels of care. Thank you. The Celebration of Life will be celebrated at the Bruce Community Centre on April 25,2026 at 1:00 p.m.with interment to follow at the Bruce Cemetery. If friends so desire in lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of their own choosing.

Donald James Heber

September 24, 1948 - March 27, 2026