elevated 3XHlD Visitation
Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 1:00 – 2:45 p.m.
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated 3XHlD Funeral Service
Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.
Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated 3XHlD Interment of Cremated Remains
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery – at a later date
8361 Yonge Street Thornhill, Ontario, L3T 3Z6

elevated 3XHlD Reception
Within the Funeral Home, following the Funeral Service

elevated 3XHlD Herbert George Heale, a devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, and uncle, passed away on March 11, 2026, at 98 years of age.

elevated 3XHlD Born in Burma (now Myanmar), Herb’s early life was shaped by adversity and turmoil. His family later relocated to India, where he was raised by his grandmother Louise, who gave him the love and spiritual grounding that guided him throughout his life. He always credited her with saving him from a very different, more difficult path.

elevated 3XHlD During his years at military school in India, Herb found the structure and discipline that, together with his grandmother’s influence, became the foundation of his character. Unable to afford tuition, he worked on the school farm — where he developed his lifelong love of animals and nature.

elevated 3XHlD In the 1950s, Herb joined Westinghouse Power Company, helping build new power stations across the Middle East, India, and Egypt. These early years abroad brought both challenges and adventure in remote worksites and villages. He loved to share remarkable stories from that time — from the cobra he once had to shoot while his crew slept, to the angry rhino that charged their jeep. After a serious accident on site left him injured, he returned to work shortly after surgery. That was simply who he was — determined, steady, and resilient.

elevated 3XHlD After relocating to the UK, Herb’s path led him to Yvonne — his future wife and the love of his life. In 1967, they moved to Canada with a new baby, ready to build a life together. Herb’s strong work ethic and ambition earned him respect and distinction, particularly at Goldlist Construction, where he rose to Vice President of Technical Services.

elevated 3XHlD Even into his 70s, Herb never stopped contributing; he continued to share his expertise as a consultant and mentor, helping many people along the way.

elevated 3XHlD At home, Herb was a loving father to Roger, and father-in-law to Mary — whom he always thought of as his own daughter. He was also a devoted and proud grandfather to Matthew and Madeline.

elevated 3XHlD Beyond family and his professional achievements, Herb’s many interests reflected his zest for life. Whether tending his garden, drawing and painting, or collecting stamps and model cars, he found joy in nature, in art, and in all things mechanical. His love of animals — and his lifelong fascination with planes, trains, and cars — filled his leisure hours.

elevated 3XHlD Herb embodied perseverance and strength, meeting every obstacle with courage and purpose. His life stands as an inspiration to all who knew him.

elevated 3XHlD He leaves behind a wealth of memories — a testament to a life well lived. May he rest in peace, forever remembered for his determination, compassion, and the lasting mark he left on those around him