Obituary of Mark Alexander Colin Heeler

HEELER, Mark -
Far too early, Mark Heeler passed away Saturday, December 1, 2018 after a seven month battle with cancer. Mark died as he lived - with courage, dignity, a no-nonsense approach to the inevitable, and surrounded by the infinite love of family and friends. Always devoted and playful Dad to his treasures, Evan and Ella, Mark was true partner and love to his wife Lynnette. Mark is survived by his mother Joan, sister Tasha, brothers in-law Shane and Blair and in-laws John and Regina. He was predeceased by his father Roger and leaves behind much loved nieces and nephews, Riley, Atticus, Willow, Cameron, Sebastian, Leo and Oliver.

Mark led a rich and varied life, beginning his career as a constable with the Ontario Provincial Police before obtaining a doctorate degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. Mark worked with the National Judicial Institute in Ottawa prior to holding a series of positions at Queen's University including Assistant Dean at Queen's Law School, Executive Director of the Office of the Principal and Director, Strategic Planning and Partnerships for the Canadian Cancer Trials Group. Within each of these roles, Mark excelled at building relationships and bringing people together to get a task done.

A lover of the outdoors, Mark was an avid cross-country runner, competing in the World Police and Fire Games as a top racer for the OPP team. Mark could frequently be found near water, sailing, paddling, jumping from docks with his kids or doing long lake swims from May to October. Mark had an adventurous spirit leading to a life filled with travel and exploration, inspiring us all to try something new. He was so very often the force that brought people together for fine meals, cottage weekends, pub nights, and family activities. Mark prioritized fun, joy, and finding beauty in friends, family, and everyday life.

Mark's family would like to thank his medical team at the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario and the palliative care unit at Providence Care Hospital for their outstanding compassion.  A memorial service will be held at JAMES REID FUNERAL HOME, 1900 John Counter Boulevard, on Friday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow in the James Reid Reception Centre. For those who wish to honour Mark's memory in some way, donations may be made to the War Amps of Canada, Child Amputee (CHAMP) program.